Kolkata, February 7, 2026: Two-time champions West Indies kicked off their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 35-run win over Scotland at the iconic Eden Gardens. A blistering half-century from Shimron Hetmyer and a sensational five-wicket haul (including a hat-trick) by Romario Shepherd ensured the Caribbean side secured a clinical victory.
Hetmyer Smashes Gayle’s Record
After being put in to bat, the West Indies struggled initially, losing early wickets. However, Shimron Hetmyer turned the tide with a breathtaking 64 off just 36 balls. He reached his fifty in a mere 22 deliveries, surpassing Chris Gayle’s record for the fastest half-century by a West Indian in T20 World Cup history.
Hetmyer, alongside skipper Rovman Powell, stitched together a crucial 81-run partnership in just 37 balls. Their aggressive strokeplay helped West Indies post a formidable total of 182/5 in their allotted 20 overs.
Scotland’s Fightback Thwarted by Shepherd’s Brilliance
Chasing 183, Scotland found themselves in trouble at 37/3. However, captain Richie Berrington (42) and Tom Bruce (35) launched a brave counter-attack. The duo added 78 runs for the fourth wicket, keeping Scotland well within reach of a historic upset.
The turning point came in the 17th over, delivered by Romario Shepherd. In a stunning display of death bowling, Shepherd claimed a hat-trick and took a total of four wickets in that single over. His career-best figures of 5/20 completely dismantled the Scottish lower order, as they were bundled out for 147 in 18.5 overs.
Match Summary
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
| West Indies | 182/5 (20 Overs) | Shimron Hetmyer (64), Brandon King (35) |
| Scotland | 147 All Out (18.5 Overs) | Richie Berrington (42), Romario Shepherd (5/20) |
Result: West Indies won by 35 runs.
Player of the Match: Shimron Hetmyer for his record-breaking 64 and a spectacular boundary catch.
Key Highlights:
- Shepherd’s Milestone: Romario Shepherd became the first bowler in the 2026 edition to claim a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul.
- Eden Gardens Connection: West Indies returned to winning ways at the very venue where they famously won the 2016 T20 World Cup final.
- The “One-Hander”: Apart from his batting, Hetmyer grabbed the limelight with a stunning one-handed catch at the deep mid-wicket boundary to dismiss George Munsey.