Tom Banton’s fluent half-century, backed by a disciplined bowling display, powered England to a five-wicket win over Scotland in their third group stage fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Saturday.
Chasing a modest target, England got off to a rocky start, losing both openers early in the powerplay. Brandon McMullen dismissed Phil Salt for just two runs off three balls, while Brad Currie sent back wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler cheaply for three off four deliveries.
Jacob Bethell and Tom Banton steadied the innings with a solid partnership, adding 66 runs and easing early pressure.
Bethell played a crucial knock of 32 off 28 balls, featuring two boundaries and a six, before being dismissed by Oliver Davidson at 79-3 in 9.3 overs.
England’s captain Harry Brook fell for four runs off as many balls, leaving the team in a tricky situation. Sam Curran then joined Banton to forge a crucial 46-run partnership, helping the side cross the 100-run mark.
Banton continued his fine form, raising his fifty and finishing unbeaten on 63 off 41 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes.
