Why the former Australia player Joe Burns switched to Italy before leading them to maiden T20 World Cup spot
Former Australia Test cricketer
Joe Burns
has made history by leading Italy to their first-ever T20 World Cup qualification for 2026. Burns, who switched allegiance to Italy in 2024 following his brother Dominic's death, used his Italian heritage through his maternal grandparents from Calabria to spark a cricket revolution in Italy.
Burns, who played 23 Tests for Australia from 2014 to 2020, had a solid international career. He scored 1,442 runs with four centuries at an average of 36.97. His career with Australia ended due to tough competition and drops in form.
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The loss of his brother Dominic in Brisbane in 2024 changed everything for Burns. He made an emotional choice to play for Italy. To honour his brother, who was a passionate club cricketer for Northern Federals, Burns wears jersey number 85 - the same number his brother used, which was also his birth year.
As Italy's T20I captain, Burns quickly changed the team's fortunes. He led them through European qualifiers with impressive performances. His best game came against Romania, where he scored 108 not out from just 55 balls. The team beat strong sides like Scotland to become the 25th nation to make it to the T20 World Cup.
Burns has brought professional standards and winning attitude to Italian cricket. He's focused on building a lasting legacy. As he recently said, "It's more than just cricket. It's about honouring family, heritage, and building something that lasts beyond us."
Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
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