Kolkata, February 9: Italy has suffered a significant blow in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026. Captain Wayne Madsen had to leave the field due to an injury during the game against Scotland. He will not return to bat, and the chances of him participating in the remaining matches of the World Cup are minimal.
In the match held at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Italy won the toss and opted to bowl first. Madsen injured his shoulder while attempting to stop a pull shot from George Munsey in the fourth over of Scotland’s innings. He dived to his left to intercept the ball but ended up injuring himself. As he fell to the ground, he signaled for medical assistance and subsequently left the field. Reports indicate that Madsen has dislocated his left shoulder.
With Madsen’s injury, commentators noted that he would not continue in the match.
Italy cricket posted on X, stating, “Captain Wayne Madsen has dislocated his left shoulder. Therefore, he will not participate further in today’s match. A very disappointing start to Italy’s campaign. We hope our boys perform well.”
In Madsen’s absence, Harry Manenti took over the captaincy for Italy.
Madsen, Italy’s most experienced player, was making his T20 World Cup debut. He was immediately sent for an X-ray. Typically, a dislocated shoulder can sideline a player for one to three weeks, while a severe injury may keep them out for three to four months.
The 42-year-old Madsen was appointed captain of Italy after Joe Burns was ruled out of the World Cup.