Nepal endured a 10-wicket defeat against Italy in their Group C fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, registering their biggest loss by wickets in T20 International history.

After being bowled out for 123 in 19.3 overs, the Rhinos failed to trouble Italy’s openers as Anthony Mosca and Justin Mosca chased down the 124-run target in just 12.4 overs with 44 balls to spare. It was the first time Nepal have lost a T20I match by 10 wickets.

Italy’s victory was built on a commanding opening partnership of 124 runs off 76 deliveries at a run rate of 9.78. Anthony Mosca remained unbeaten on 62 off 32 balls, striking three fours and six sixes at a blistering strike rate of 193.75. Justin Mosca supported him with an unbeaten 60 off 44 deliveries, including five fours and three sixes.

Italy raced to 68 without loss in the powerplay and reached 97 by the 10-over mark, effectively sealing the contest midway through the chase. Nepal’s bowlers were denied any opportunity to make inroads as the Mosca brothers dominated proceedings.

Earlier, Nepal’s batting faltered after losing the toss and being invited to bat first. Opener Kushal Bhurtel departed for 5 off 10 balls in the second over, setting the tone for a shaky innings. Nepal were 46/1 after six overs but slipped to 67/3 at the halfway stage.

Captain Rohit Kumar Paudel made 23 off 14 balls, hitting two sixes before being caught off Crishan Kalugamage. Aasif Sheikh scored 20 off 20 balls but was stumped off Ben Manenti. Aarif Sheikh top-scored with 27 off 24 balls, striking three boundaries.

Dipendra Singh Airee contributed 17 off 18 balls but failed to find the boundary, while Lokesh Bam managed just 3. Gulshan Kumar Jha scored 3 off 4 deliveries, and Nandan Yadav was run out for a duck.

Karan KC provided late resistance with an unbeaten 18 off 11 balls, including a four and a six. He shared a 21-run stand for the ninth wicket with Sandeep Lamichhane, who made 5 off 7 balls. Lalit Narayan Rajbanshi was run out for nought as Nepal were dismissed three balls short of their allotted overs.

Italy’s bowling was disciplined throughout. Crishan Kalugamage was named Player of the Match for his 3/18 in four overs. Ben Manenti impressed with 2/9 in four overs, while Ali Hasan, JJ Smuts and Jaspreet Singh claimed one wicket each. Grant Stewart was the only bowler to go wicketless.

Nepal’s struggle to defend modest totals continued. Excluding their successful defence of 117 against Oman on February 18, 2022, the Rhinos have failed to defend nine targets below 123. Including Thursday’s defeat, Nepal have been unable to defend totals of 140 or below on five occasions, with their only successful defence of 140 coming against the UAE on October 12 last year.

On a ground known for high scores, Nepal’s 123 proved insufficient, and Italy capitalised fully to secure a comprehensive win in their maiden World Cup appearance.