ENG vs ITA Dream11 Prediction today: Expert fantasy tips, pitch report, and probable XI for Match 29 of T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 brings a fascinating “David vs. Goliath” encounter to the iconic Eden Gardens as two-time champions England face off against tournament debutants Italy. While England enters as the heavy favorite after a morale-boosting win over Scotland, Italy has already proven they aren’t just here to make up the numbers, having secured a historic 10-wicket victory over Nepal. For Harry Brook’s men, this is a golden opportunity to bolster their Net Run Rate (NRR) and secure a Super 8 berth.
Data Suite: Match Information
| Category | Details |
| Match | England (ENG) vs Italy (ITA), Match 29, Group C |
| Series | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Venue | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| Date & Time | Monday, February 16, 2026 |
| Broadcast | Star Sports Network & JioHotstar |
Pitch & Weather Report
Pitch Report
The Eden Gardens surface is traditionally a balanced track. However, for this afternoon game, expect the batters to dominate early on.
- Nature: Good bounce and carry. The black cotton soil helps maintain pace.
- Spin vs Pace: Seamers will find some Powerplay impact with the new ball, but as the match progresses, the wicket tends to slow down, bringing the likes of Adil Rashid and the Manenti brothers into the game.
- Fantasy Impact: Chasing has been statistically more successful here (53% win rate), and the boundary clearing ability of the English top-order could lead to a high-scoring first innings if they bat first.
Weather Update
- Temperature: 29°C (Daytime High).
- Rain Chance: 0% (Clear Skies).
- Humidity: 33%.
- Effect: A hot afternoon will dry the pitch further, aiding spinners in the second innings.
Form Guide & Head-to-Head
Last 5 Matches
- England: W, L, W, W, W (Coming off a 5-wicket win vs Scotland).
- Italy: W, L, W, W, W (Coming off a 10-wicket win vs Nepal).
Head-to-Head (H2H)
This is the first-ever T20 International meeting between England and Italy. History is being made at Eden Gardens today!
Probable Playing XI
England (ENG):
Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.
Italy (ITA):
Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti (c), Ben Manenti, Marcus Campopiano, Grant Stewart, Gian Meade (wk), Jaspreet Singh, Crishan Kalugamage, Ali Hasan.
Dream11 Prediction Section
Small League (Safe Team)
- Top Picks: Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Sam Curran.
- Captain Choice: Jos Buttler. His ability to exploit the Powerplay at Eden Gardens is unmatched.
- Vice-Captain Choice: Sam Curran. A genuine death-over specialist who also contributes significant runs in the middle order.
Grand League (Risky/Differential)
- JJ Smuts: An experienced campaigner who knows Indian conditions well; a high-ceiling pick for Italy.
- Jofra Archer: If England bowls first, Archer’s pace could dismantle the Italian top order early.
| Category | Players |
| Must-Have | Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Adil Rashid, Harry Manenti |
| Budget Picks | Jacob Bethell (7.5 Cr), Crishan Kalugamage (7 Cr) |
Key Player Analysis
- Jos Buttler (WK-Batter): The heartbeat of England’s batting. His Powerplay impact usually dictates the tempo of the game.
- Crishan Kalugamage (Bowler): Fresh off a 3/18 performance against Nepal, he is Italy’s primary threat with the ball.
- Adil Rashid (Spinner): His economy rate in the middle overs will be crucial in stifling the Italian batters on a slowing Kolkata track.
Match Prediction
Win Probability: ENG 90% | ITA 10%
While Italy is a rising force, England’s tactical depth and experience in high-octane ICC events should see them through comfortably.
Final Dream11 Team (Balanced)
- WK: Jos Buttler (C), Phil Salt
- Batters: Harry Brook, Justin Mosca, Jacob Bethell
- All-rounders: Sam Curran (VC), JJ Smuts, Harry Manenti
- Bowlers: Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Crishan Kalugamage
FAQs
- Who will win ENG vs ITA? England is the overwhelming favorite.
- What is the best C/VC for this match? Jos Buttler (C) and Sam Curran (VC).
- Is Eden Gardens a batting or bowling pitch? It is batting-friendly but helps spinners as the game progresses.
- Will dew affect the match? No, it is an afternoon game.
- Which Italian player is a must-pick? Harry Manenti and Crishan Kalugamage are key performers.
- Where can I find last-minute team updates? Join the Battingfirst WhatsApp Channel for final toss updates.
Expert’s Verdict: England will likely use this match to test their tactical substitutions and aggressive batting. Stick with English openers for your C/VC slots in Small Leagues.
