West Indies cricket is famous for its “Caribbean” flair, usually meaning massive sixes and dancing batters. But on the opening day of the T20 World Cup 2026, the script flipped at a buzzing Eden Gardens. While the batsmen did their part, it was Romario Shepherd with the ball in hand who delivered the magic, claiming a historic hat-trick to seal a 35-run win over Scotland.
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The match began with familiar Caribbean fireworks as Shimron Hetmyer smashed a quick 64, lifting the Windies to 182. Scotland, however, wasn't going down without a fight. Chasing the target, they looked settled at 115/4, threatening an upset. That’s when Romario Shepherd stepped up in the 17th over and turned the game on its head.
The first wicket fell when Matthew Cross tried to steer a wide yorker but only found the fielder at point. The tension spiked immediately. On the very next delivery, Michael Leask tried to launch a length ball over mid-wicket, but skied it for Rovman Powell to take a safe catch.
With the crowd on its feet, Romario Shepherd steamed in for the hat-trick ball. He produced a beauty that tailed in late, beating Oliver Davidson’s bat and smashing into the top of the off-stump. The stumps cartwheeled, and Shepherd took off in a wild celebration. It was a perfect start for the Men in Maroon, reminding everyone that they can win games with lethal bowling just as well as they can with big hitting.
