For the first time in the history of the T20 World Cup 2026, the England cricket team managed to register a win over a European team. The two time champions broke their jinx against a European team by defeating Scotland on February 14 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Tom Banton’s maiden T20 World Cup half-century confirmed the team’s victory against the competitive Scotland cricket team. Banton remained unbeaten for 63 and took the team to the finish line in a convincing manner.
England finally secured a T20 World Cup match win over European team
It was a much win match for England as they gained a huge blow in their second match of their campaign against West Indies. Against West Indies, the Three Lions fell short by 30 runs and allowed the Carribbeans to win the clash. With two points in bag, Harry Brook-led team had to win against Scotland.
The win over the Scottish team is keeping the England cricket team’s dream alive in the tournament to qualify for the next round. Only top two teams from each group will be eligible to play in next phase of the competition, where only 8 teams will play. As of now, after playing three matches, England has now 4 points. In their opening match of the campaign, they managed to gain a narrow win against Nepal.
Banton brings us home! 💪
Victory in Kolkata with 10 balls to spare 🙌 pic.twitter.com/yfFpsUm2fN
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) February 14, 2026
Ton Banton was the main man of today’s match
In today’s (February 14) match, Banton appeared as England’s hero, mostly supported by Jacob Bethell, and Sam Curran. During the final phase of the contest, Banton was accompanied by Will Jacks.
Though, the proven opening pair with Phil Salt and Jos Buttler departed cheaply. England was two down only for 13 in the second innings. It was Banton who stabilized the things for the team. Though, despite a batting failure, Buttler completed a milestone.
Jos Buttler added 3 runs to the team’s total, and completed 4,000 T20I runs on individual case. The keeper-batter is the English cricketer to achieve the record. Overall, he is the fourth cricketer to do that.
England yet to secure another win to confirm a seat for the round of eight
Batting first, Scotland registered 152 for 10 in 19.4 overs, which was not a bad total to defend. Scotland captain Richie Berrington missed his T20 World Cup 2026 half-century only for 1 run, as he dismissed for 49 off 32. Opener Michael Jones was the second highest Scottish in the match with 33 runs.
England will secure their spot in the next round of they able to win the next match too, which is against Italy. England will face Italy on February 16 in Kolkata. On paper, it should be an easy point houl process for the English team.
