Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Italy created history at the ICC T20 World Cup as brothers Justin Mosca and Anthony Mosca powered their team to their first-ever World Cup win, also setting a unique record for the highest partnership between siblings in T20 World Cup history.Playing their first World Cup in any format, Italy thrashed Nepal by 10 wickets at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. After winning the toss, Italy chose to bowl and quickly put pressure on Nepal’s batters.
Nepal struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for just 123 runs in 19.3 overs. Aarif Sheikh, Rohit Paudel and Aasif Sheikh were the main contributors, but Italy’s bowlers kept things tight throughout.Spinners Crishan Kalugamage and Ben Manenti led the bowling attack, taking key wickets and keeping the scoring in check. Their efforts ensured Italy had a manageable target to chase.In reply, the Mosca brothers took complete control of the game. Justin Mosca scored an unbeaten 60 off 44 balls, while Anthony Mosca smashed an unbeaten 62 off 32 balls. Together, they put on a 124-run opening partnership, chasing the target in just 12.4 overs without losing a wicket.Their partnership broke a long-standing record, surpassing the previous best by brothers Kamran and Umar Akmal for Pakistan in the 2014 T20 World Cup. It also became one of the rare 100-plus opening stands by associate teams in T20 World Cup history and only the second time an associate nation has won a World Cup match by 10 wickets.For Italy, a nation better known for football, this win marked a milestone moment and showcased their growing presence in international cricket. The Mosca brothers’ performance will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the tournament and a proud chapter in Italy’s cricket journey.
