On February 14, 2026, the city of Kolkata witnessed an exciting encounter in the 23rd group stage match between Scotland and England in the ICC World Cup 2026. The Group C encounter saw England chase the target set by Scotland and emerge victorious with five wickets in hand.
Scotland’s Innings: A Rocky Start, A Plodding Progress
Scotland began their innings on a shaky note, losing 3 wickets for 42 runs in 5.5 overs. A major breakthrough came in the 3.1 over, where England reviewed and sent the batsman, MA Jones, back. The plodding RD Berrington and TC Bruce helped the team reach 50 in 6.6 overs with their valuable partnership.
Scotland reached 100 in 11.3 overs, thanks to 34 runs from RD Berrington. The team managed to reach 152 in 19.4 overs, with O Davidson hitting 20 runs at the end. There were several Umpire review decisions, including an Umpire’s Call that had RD Berrington declared out.
England’s Chase: A Power-packed Performance by Banton
England, who were targeting 153, started off cautiously and reached 43/2 in the power play. Bethell and Banton added runs in the middle order, and England reached 100 in 12.2 overs, with Banton pulling the accelerator.
Banton, who was the hero with the bat, struck 50 from 33 balls, with 3 fours and 3 sixes, and took England across the finish line at 155/5 in 18.2 overs.
Player of the Match: Tom Banton
Tom Banton was awarded the Player of the Match award for his unbeaten 63 off 41 balls and two crucial catches, which anchored England’s victory and ensured that they stayed alive in the Group C standings.
Key moments
- Scotland: 152 all out in 19.4 overs (Top scorer: RD Berrington, 34)
- England: 155 for 5 in 18.2 overs (Top scorer: Tom Banton, 63*)
- England won by 5 wickets with 10 balls remaining
- Umpire reviews added extra drama
It was a match that highlighted the fighting spirit of the Scots and the calm and composed attitude of the Englishmen, and it was an edge-of-your-seat thriller in Kolkata.