The West Indies launched their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign in style, securing a commanding 35-run victory over Scotland in the tournament’s second match at the iconic Eden Gardens.
Posting a formidable 182/5 in their 20 overs, the Caribbean side then bowled out Scotland for 147 in 18.5 overs, showcasing a blend of aggressive batting and ruthless bowling that reaffirmed their status as two-time champions.
The match began with Scotland winning the toss and opting to field first, hoping to exploit early conditions. However, the West Indies openers laid a steady foundation before the middle order exploded. Shimron Hetmyer was the star with the bat, smashing an unbeaten 64 off just 36 balls, including a half-century in a mere 22 deliveries – the fastest by a West Indies batter in T20 World Cup history. Partnering with captain Rovman Powell, Hetmyer added a blistering 81 runs in only 37 balls, turning a cautious start into a daunting total. Sherfane Rutherford provided the finishing touches with some powerful hitting in the death overs, pushing the score beyond Scotland’s reach.
Scotland’s chase started on a shaky note, losing three wickets inside the Powerplay to slump to 37/3. A fighting 78-run partnership between captain Richie Berrington (42 off 24 balls) and Tom Bruce (35 off 28 balls) briefly revived their hopes, taking them to 115/3. Berrington’s aggressive strokeplay, featuring three fours and two sixes, kept the Scots in the hunt. However, the innings unraveled dramatically in the middle and death overs.
Enter Romario Shepherd, who delivered a spell for the ages. The all-rounder claimed a stunning five-wicket haul (5/20 in three overs), including a hat-trick in the 17th over that dismissed Michael Leask, Oliver Davidson, and Safyaan Sharif in successive deliveries. Shepherd’s heroics triggered a collapse, with Scotland losing their last five wickets for just 14 runs, folding from 133/6 to 147 all out. Jason Holder supported with 3/30, while Gudakesh Motie and Shamar Joseph chipped in with crucial wickets.
Fielding highlights added to the spectacle, with Hetmyer pulling off a one-handed stunner to dismiss George Munsey, and other sharp catches sealing Scotland’s fate. Despite a valiant effort, Scotland’s bowlers – led by Brad Currie and debutant Oliver Davidson – couldn’t contain the West Indies’ firepower.
Player of the Match Shimron Hetmyer reflected post-game: “I prefer batting at No. 3 as it gives me freedom to attack early. But credit to Shepherd – his hat-trick was unbelievable.” West Indies captain Shai Hope praised the team’s execution, noting room for improvement but satisfaction with the winning start. Scotland’s Richie Berrington lamented the collapse but highlighted positives from the batting depth and early bowling.
This win earns West Indies two crucial points in Group C, setting a strong foundation for their title defense. Scotland, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures. With the tournament just underway, the West Indies have sent a clear message: they’re here to dominate.
