The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 got off to an exciting start for the West Indies, who defeated Scotland by 35 runs in their Group C clash at Eden Gardens on 7 February 2026. West Indies’ powerful batting display and a spectacular bowling performance, including a hat-trick, powered them to victory in a lively opening match.
Windies Post Competitive Total
West Indies won the toss and elected to bat first in sweltering conditions at Eden Gardens. Despite early pressure, the Windies innings was propelled by a match-turning knock from Shimron Hetmyer, who struck a quickfire 64 runs off 36 balls, including multiple boundaries and sixes to keep the scoring rate brisk. His aggressive approach provided momentum and stability after a cautious start.
Key contributions down the order ensured West Indies reached a strong total of 182 for 5 in their 20 overs, a competitive figure on a flat pitch with short boundaries.
Scotland’s Chase Ends at 147
Chasing 183 for victory, Scotland started their innings with intent, but West Indies’ bowling attack made early inroads. The pressure mounted as wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing any substantial partnerships from forming.
The match’s defining moment came courtesy of Romario Shepherd, who produced a sensational bowling spell, including a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul, dismantling Scotland’s lower order and turning the game decisively in West Indies’ favor. Shepherd’s performance was one of the most remarkable bowling displays of the tournament’s opening day.
Scotland were eventually bundled out for 147 in 18.5 overs, handing West Indies a 35-run victory in a match that showcased both batting flair and bowling precision.
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Key Performances
⭐ West Indies
- Shimron Hetmyer — 64 runs off 36 balls: A fast, aggressive innings that anchored West Indies’ score and kept the required run rate in check.
- Romario Shepherd — Hat-trick & five wickets: A game-changing bowling spell that triggered Scotland’s collapse and ensured West Indies took control of the chase.
Scotland
Scotland showed fight early in their chase, but the lack of sustained partnerships and inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities limited their challenge.
Match Summary
Match: West Indies vs Scotland, Group C – T20 World Cup 2026
Date: 7 February 2026
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
West Indies: 182/5 (20 overs)
Scotland: 147 (18.5 overs)
Result: West Indies won by 35 runs
Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd for his hat-trick and five-wicket haul. (ESPN.com)
What This Means for Both Teams
West Indies begin their campaign with confidence, displaying power in their batting lineup and match-winning capabilities in bowling. Their performance highlights their all-round strength and sets a positive tone for the rest of the group stage. (Wisden)
For Scotland, the match provides valuable experience on the big stage, and despite the loss they will look to regroup and build cohesion ahead of their next fixtures.
Scorecard Table
West Indies Innings
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shimron Hetmyer | 64 | 36 | 6 | 5 | 177.77 |
| Sherfane Rutherford | 26 | 13 | 4 | 1 | 200.00 |
| Brandon King | 35 | 30 | 4 | 1 | 116.66 |
| Rovman Powell | 24 | 14 | 1 | 2 | 171.42 |
| Others | * | * | — | — | — |
| Total | 182/5 | 20 overs | — | — | — |
Scotland Innings
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richie Berrington (c) | 42 | 24 | 6 | 0 | 175.00 |
| Tom Bruce | 35 | 28 | 3 | 1 | 125.00 |
| George Munsey | 19 | 15 | 1 | 1 | 126.67 |
| Others | * | * | — | — | — |
| Total | 147 | 18.5 overs | — | — | — |
(Powered by official live score sources) (ESPN Cricinfo)
Key Moments
- Hetmyer’s explosive batting helped West Indies recover from early slow scoring and posted a competitive total. (NDTV Sports)
- Shepherd’s hat-trick and five-wicket haul turned the match in West Indies’ favor during Scotland’s chase. (The Times of India)
- Scotland fought valiantly, but couldn’t build momentum after losing early wickets. (ESPN.com)