Italian openers Justin Mosco and Anthony Mosco scripted a memorable chapter in their country’s cricketing history during the 2026 T20 World Cup, as their unbeaten opening partnership of 124 runs powered Italy to a commanding 10-wicket win over Nepal. It was Italy’s first-ever victory in the tournament, and the Mosco brothers ensured it came in record-breaking fashion, eclipsing a mark that had stood untouched for 12 years.
History unfolded at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday when the siblings combined to produce a clinical chase, reaching the target in just 74 balls and sealing the match with 46 deliveries to spare. It was not just a win, but a statement performance from a side that had been beaten by 73 runs in its opening game. With regular captain Wayne Madsen sidelined due to injury, Italy needed someone to step up—and the Mosco brothers answered that call in emphatic style.
“It feels surreal,” said Justin after the match. “We’ve spent our entire lives playing together, from backyard games to club cricket, always talking about representing Italy one day. To stand here at a World Cup and finish a game together like this is something we’ll cherish forever.”
Earlier in the evening, Italy’s spinners had laid the foundation for the victory. Operating with discipline and control, they strangled the Nepali batting line-up and bowled them out for a modest 123. The fielding was sharp, the bowling plans were executed perfectly, and by the time the innings ended, Italy sensed an opportunity.
Chasing 124, the Mosco brothers walked out with clear intent. There was no panic, no unnecessary risks—just controlled aggression and superb understanding between the two. Justin played the anchor’s role, compiling a steady 60 off 44 balls with five boundaries and three sixes. At the other end, elder brother Anthony unleashed a more attacking approach, hammering 62 off just 32 deliveries, including six towering sixes and three fours.
“We’ve batted together for years, so we don’t really need many words in the middle,” said Anthony. “A look, a nod, and we know what the other is thinking. The plan was simple—stay positive, keep the scoreboard moving, and finish the game ourselves if we could.”
Their partnership grew in confidence as the chase progressed. The boundaries came regularly, the running between the wickets was sharp, and the required rate never became a concern. By the halfway mark, the outcome looked inevitable. When the winning runs were struck, the brothers raised their bats not just in celebration of a personal milestone, but in acknowledgement of a historic moment for Italian cricket.
The unbeaten stand also entered the record books as the first instance of two siblings putting together a century partnership in the history of the T20 World Cup. The previous best by a pair of brothers had been set by Pakistan’s Akmal siblings during the 2014 edition, a record that had remained intact for over a decade.
“For us, the most important thing was getting Italy its first win,” Justin added. “Records are nice, but what matters is contributing to the team. Hopefully this result gives everyone back home something to celebrate and inspires more young players to take up the sport.”
Anthony echoed the sentiment, adding, “This is just the beginning for us. We want to keep improving, keep competing, and show that Italy belongs on this stage. To share this moment with my brother makes it even more special.”
For Italy, it was a victory that meant far more than two points. It was a glimpse of potential, a moment of pride, and a performance that will be remembered as the night the Mosco brothers put their country on the T20 World Cup map.
By Joe Williams
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