Shepherd claims five wickets including hat-trick in massive win
Eden Gardens witnessed a spectacular display of Caribbean flair today as the West Indies opened their campaign with a dominant performance. In the second match of the T20 World Cup 2026, the Men in Maroon defeated Scotland by 35 runs, thanks to a batting masterclass by Shimron Hetmyer and a historic bowling spell from Romario Shepherd.
Hetmyer Anchors the Innings
Scotland captain Richie Berrington won the toss and elected to field, hoping to restrict the opposition early. The plan seemed to work initially as West Indies struggled to find rhythm. However, Shimron Hetmyer changed the complexion of the game. Walking in when the team needed stability, Hetmyer smashed a blistering 64 runs off just 36 balls.
His innings, which included six massive sixes, lifted the West Indies to a competitive total of 182/5. He was ably supported by Brandon King (35) and a quick-fire cameo from Sherfane Rutherford, who scored 26 off 13 balls. The Scottish bowlers, particularly Brad Currie with 2 wickets, tried to keep things tight, but the death overs proved costly.
Shepherd Destroys Scottish Hopes
Chasing a target of 183, Scotland started cautiously. Captain Richie Berrington (42) and Tom Bruce (35) built a steady partnership that gave their dugout some hope during the middle overs. At 115/4, the game hung in the balance.
However, the match turned on its head when Romario Shepherd took charge of the ball. In a devastating display of pace bowling, Shepherd ripped through the Scottish lower order. He claimed a sensational hat-trick in the 17th over, removing Matthew Cross, Michael Leask, and Oliver Davidson in consecutive deliveries.
Shepherd finished with incredible figures of 5 for 20, ending the West Indies vs Scotland contest swiftly. Scotland collapsed from a promising position to be all out for 147 in 18.5 overs. This victory gives the West Indies a strong start in Group C, boosting their net run rate significantly right at the start of the tournament.
