Mosca Masterclass Powers Italy to Emphatic Win Over Guernsey

A blistering unbeaten knock from Justin Mosca and a clinical bowling effort led Italy to a dominant seven-wicket win over Guernsey in their opening fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Region Final in The Hague. The Italians made a clear statement of intent, chasing down 123 in just 14 overs to start their campaign with a convincing victory.

Guernsey Stifled by Manenti Brothers, Stewart

After electing to bat, Guernsey struggled to build momentum throughout their innings. Tom Nightingale was the only batter to show real resistance with a well-composed 35 off 26 balls, but consistent breakthroughs by Italy’s bowlers kept the scoreboard in check.

The Manenti brothers — Harry (3/17) and Ben (2/21) — choked the middle overs with smart variations, while Grant Stewart (4-0-16-1) was miserly upfront and at the death. Guernsey finished at a below-par 122/9, never recovering from regular wickets at key stages.

Mosca Lights It Up in Chase

Italy’s response was nothing short of commanding. After the early dismissal of debutant Emilio Gay (8 off 4), the trio of Joe Burns (30 off 20), Harry Manenti (22 off 22), and especially Justin Mosca took over.

Mosca’s innings was a standout – a combination of calculated aggression and exquisite timing. He struck 6 fours and 3 sixes in a fluent 66 off 37 balls*, showcasing his class with lofted drives, flicks off the pads, and one audacious six over long-on that had the Italian camp on its feet.

His dominance was on full display in the highlight package, especially his dismantling of Guernsey’s medium pacers — twice stepping down the track to launch them over extra cover.

Italy sealed the chase in 14 overs, finishing at 127/3, thanks to Mosca’s brilliance and a composed team effort.

Match Summary:

Guernsey – 122/9 (20 overs) Tom Nightingale 35 (26), Harry Manenti 4-1-17-3, Ben Manenti 4-0-21-2, Grant Stewart 4-0-16-1

Italy – 127/3 (14 overs) Justin Mosca 66* (37), Joe Burns 30 (20), Harry Manenti 22 (22)
Result: Italy won by 7 wickets with 36 balls to spare
Player of the Match: Justin Mosca (66 off 37)*

Joe Burns (Italy captain):
“That’s exactly how we wanted to begin. The bowlers set it up, and Justin [Mosca] was world-class today. Great intent all around.”