WATCH | T20 World Cup explodes into life, rivals renew battle lines

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has roared into action, with familiar rivals once again taking up their bats in pursuit of the biggest prize in the shortest format. The 2026 tournament, hosted across India and Sri Lanka, opened on Saturday with early drama, momentum swings and a clear warning to all contenders: this World Cup will offer no easy passages. Two-time champions West Indies set the early tone against Scotland, combining power-hitting with ruthless bowling to stamp their authority in Pool C.

Scotland’s innings faltered almost immediately after West Indies seized control in the powerplay. Jason Holder struck first by removing opener Michael Jones, before Romario Shepherd accounted for Brandon McMullen. Shamar Joseph capped a dominant opening spell by dismissing George Munsey, leaving Scotland wobbling at 38/3 after six overs.

A crucial 78-run partnership between skipper Richie Berrington and Tom Bruce steadied the innings and briefly shifted momentum. Berrington’s brisk 42 off 24 balls and Bruce’s 35 off 28 threatened to revive Scotland’s hopes, but Holder returned to break the stand before Gudakesh Motie struck in the next over. The all-rounder claimed four wickets, including the first hat-trick of this year’s tournament, as Scotland collapsed from 133/5 to 133/9.

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Earlier, Scotland had made early inroads with the ball. West Indies were kept in check during the powerplay, with Brandon King and Shai Hope managing just 33 runs in the first six overs. Michael Leask removed Hope for 19, while debutant Oliver Davidson celebrated his maiden World Cup wicket when King departed for 35.

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