Brothers Justin and Anthony Mosca led Twenty20 World Cup newcomers Italy to their first victory of the competition with their undefeated half-centuries, securing a commanding 10-wicket triumph over Nepal in a Group C match on Thursday.
Italy, a nation without a natural cricket pitch, chased down a target of 124 with 44 balls to spare, making Justin (60) and Anthony (62) the first siblings to make half-centuries in the same T20 World Cup tournament.
Italy’s choice to bowl first paid off in Mumbai as their spinners thwarted Nepal’s attempts to form a partnership, with Benjamin Manenti (2-9) and Crishan Kalugamage (3-18) taking wickets frequently. In addition to dismissing Nepal skipper Rohit Paudel (23), player of the match Kalugamage assisted in limiting Nepal to a pitiful 123.
The absence of their skipper Wayne Madsen, who dislocated his shoulder during Monday’s defeat to Scotland, did not deter the Italian openers, who got off to a fast start thanks to three sixes and three boundaries from Justin Mosca, who helped his team reach 50-0 in four overs.
Anthony smashed a six in the following delivery to reach his own half-century after he reached 50 off 37 balls in the 11th over. Italy reached 124-0 in 12.4 overs after Anthony’s shot towards cover produced the game-winning run. His teammates hurried onto the field to celebrate their historic win.
“I always wanted to help the team win and do my best for my nation Italy… it’s a massive moment for me after a lot of sacrifices,” during the post-match presentation, Kalugamage, a pizza artisan from Sri Lanka, said, his voice trembling.
Italy will next play two-time former champions England in Kolkata on Monday.
