Italy and Netherlands qualify for the Men's T20 World Cup 2026

Despite a win for the Netherlands, Italy's net run rate advantage meant that both sides qualified for the mega event in India and Sri Lanka next year.The concluding day of the Europe Qualifiers for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup was filled with excitement, as all four teams had a chance heading into the final two matches. Ultimately, both the Netherlands and Italy secured their spots for the prestigious event.

For Italy, this marks their inaugural qualification for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

After being limited to 134/7, Italy had to hold the Netherlands for at least 15 overs to qualify.

Michael Levitt and Max O'Dowd got the hosts off to a rapid start during the Powerplay, which shifted the momentum away from Italy early in the game. However, the visitors ensured the match extended to the 17th over, allowing them to secure a place in India and Sri Lanka next year.

In the first innings, the seasoned Roelof van der Merwe played a crucial role in helping the Netherlands limit Italy to a modest total, taking three wickets and conceding just 15 runs in his four overs.

Italy struggled with regular wicket losses and failed to form a partnership that could sustain their innings, as Kyle Klein's bowling, complemented by van der Merwe's disciplined performance, made it difficult for the visitors to score freely.

A solid innings from Benjamin Manenti, along with a late surge from Grant Stewarts, lifted Italy to a total of 134/7 in their 20 overs. The Netherlands comfortably chased this down, but it was sufficient for Italy to qualify for their first-ever World Cup tournament.

Jersey missed out on the qualification spot despite achieving victory against Scotland, marking Jersey's first-ever win against them.

So far, 15 teams have qualified for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026; the Asia EAP qualifier will see three additional teams qualify from the competition, while two more teams will emerge from the Africa qualifier.