England vs Scotland – Match 23 Preview | T20 World Cup 2026
Match 23 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sets up a high-stakes European showdown as England face Scotland at Eden Gardens. With Group C tightly contested, every point now carries significant weight in the race to the Super 8 stage.
Match Details
- Fixture: England vs Scotland – Match 23
- Date: 14 February 2026
- Time: 15:00 Local (09:30 GMT)
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Group Situation
England, Italy and Scotland are level on two points, while West Indies have surged ahead. Nepal remain winless. With margins tight, net run rate could become decisive.
England Under Pressure
England enter this contest eager to bounce back after a disappointing loss in their previous outing. Questions linger around their batting consistency and death bowling execution. The top order, featuring Jos Buttler and Phil Salt, has shown promise but failed to convert starts into match-defining innings.
In the bowling department, Liam Dawson has impressed with control, but Jofra Archer and Sam Curran have leaked runs at crucial stages.
Scotland’s Growing Confidence
Scotland have quietly built momentum after settling into conditions at Eden Gardens. Having already played multiple matches in Kolkata, familiarity with pitch behavior and evening conditions could work in their favor.
George Munsey remains central to their batting hopes, while skipper Richie Berrington adds experience in the middle order. Spin duo Mark Watt and Michael Leask could play vital roles if the surface slows down.
Pitch & Conditions
- Afternoon game with lights likely to come into play early
- Batting tends to ease under lights
- Spinners effective in middle overs
- Toss decision may hinge on dew factor
Head-to-Head
- No decisive T20 World Cup result between the two
- Previous meeting ended in no result
Key Players to Watch
England
- Harry Brook – Aggressive middle-order batter
- Jos Buttler – Impact opener
- Adil Rashid – Spin specialist
- Sam Curran – All-round contributor
Scotland
- George Munsey – Explosive opener
- Richie Berrington – Experienced captain
- Mark Watt – Spin control
- Brad Currie – Reliable pace option
Fantasy Cricket Tips – ENG vs SCO
Captain Choices
- Harry Brook
- George Munsey
- Jos Buttler
Vice-Captain Options
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Watt
- Sam Curran
Differential Picks
- Michael Leask
- Jacob Bethell
Probable Playing XIs
England
Jos Buttler (wk), Phil Salt, Harry Brook (c), Ben Duckett, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Luke Wood
Scotland
George Munsey, Richie Berrington (c), Michael Jones, Matthew Cross (wk), Michael Leask, Mark Watt, Brad Wheal, Safyaan Sharif, Brad Currie, Brandon McMullen, Chris Greaves
Match Prediction
England enter as favorites on paper due to depth and experience. However, Scotland’s familiarity with Eden Gardens and spin-heavy attack could challenge England’s middle order. Expect a tightly fought European contest.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is ENG vs SCO Match 23?
14 February 2026 at 3:00 PM local time in Kolkata.
Where is the match being played?
Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Who are the best fantasy picks?
Harry Brook, Jos Buttler, George Munsey, Adil Rashid and Mark Watt are strong options.
What is at stake?
Vital Super 8 qualification points in a tightly contested Group C.