Italy’s T20 World Cup campaign suffered an early and serious setback after captain Wayne Madsen was ruled out of their tournament opener against Scotland in Kolkata on Monday.
Madsen sustained a suspected shoulder dislocation while fielding in the fourth over of Scotland’s innings, injuring himself after a full-length dive to save runs.
The 42-year-old was clearly distressed as he left the field, his left arm cradled in a makeshift sling fashioned from his jersey.
The timing could hardly have been worse. This is Madsen’s first-ever appearance at a T20 World Cup, having been named Italy’s captain for the tournament following the omission of Joe Burns.
One of the most experienced players in the squad, Madsen brings stability and leadership to a side
still finding its feet at the global level.
He was taken for X-rays at the ground immediately after the incident to assess the severity of the injury.
In T20 internationals, Madsen has scored two half-centuries across seven innings, underlining his value as a reliable middle-order presence.
Recovery timelines for shoulder dislocations vary widely — while minor cases can heal in seven to 21 days, more serious injuries may sideline a player for three to four months.
In Madsen’s absence, Harry Manenti took over captaincy duties for the remainder of Scotland’s innings, but Italy struggled to regain control.
Meanwhile, on the pitch, Scotland’s batters took full advantage. Opener George Munsey produced a commanding half-century and combined with Michael Jones for a century stand that laid the foundation for a dominant total. The pair added 126 for the first wicket, dismantling Italy’s inexperienced bowling attack with authority.
Munsey top-scored with a fluent 84 off 54 balls, while Jones chipped in with 37 from 30 deliveries. Durban-born all-rounder Brandon McMullen provided the finishing touches, blasting an unbeaten 41 off just 18 balls as Scotland powered their way to 207 for 4.
(with PTI inputs)
