ROME — Former Australia Test opener Joe Burns is on the verge of making history, not for his home country, but for Italy, as he captains the European nation in their bid to qualify for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Burns, who switched allegiances to Italy through his ancestry, believes his team has the chance to "create a legacy" in Italian cricket.
The 34-year-old, who played 23 Tests and six ODIs for Australia, now leads Italy’s charge in the Europe Qualifier, where they are just two wins away from securing their first-ever World Cup berth. Italy will face Germany in the semi-finals, with the winner advancing to the final and earning a spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA.
Burns’ Italian Connection and Leadership
Burns, whose great-grandparents were Italian, joined the squad in 2023 after receiving approval from the ICC to represent Italy. His experience at the highest level has been invaluable for a team largely composed of semi-professional players. "This is about more than just cricket—it’s about inspiring a new generation in Italy," Burns said in a recent interview.
Under his leadership, Italy has shown remarkable progress, topping their group in the qualifiers with convincing wins over France, Sweden, and Austria. Burns has been instrumental both as a batsman and mentor, scoring a crucial half-century against France to secure their semi-final spot.
The Road to the World Cup
Italy’s journey to the semi-finals has been a testament to their resilience and teamwork. Key performances from:
- Gareth Berg (former South Africa U19 player) with his all-round contributions
- Jaspreet Singh (leading wicket-taker in the qualifiers)
- Marcus Campopiano (consistent top-order runs)
have bolstered their campaign. A win against Germany would not only secure a World Cup berth but also mark a historic milestone for Italian cricket.
Burns’ Vision for Italian Cricket
Burns emphasized the long-term impact of qualifying for a World Cup: "If we make it, it changes everything. More funding, more exposure, and most importantly, more kids in Italy picking up a bat and ball." The Italian Cricket Federation has already seen a surge in interest, with junior programs expanding in Rome and Milan.
Challenges Ahead
Germany, their semi-final opponents, pose a significant threat. Led by experienced campaigner Michael Richardson (son of former South Africa wicketkeeper Dave Richardson), Germany boasts a strong batting lineup. Burns acknowledged the challenge: "They’re a quality side, but we’ve prepared well. It’s about handling the pressure on the day."
The match, to be played in Edinburgh, will be a high-stakes encounter. Italy’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Singh and Berg, will need to contain Germany’s power hitters, while Burns and Campopiano must anchor the batting.
A Legacy in the Making
Burns, who once shared a record 503-run opening stand with David Warner in Sheffield Shield cricket, now finds himself in a different kind of partnership—one with a nation eager to embrace cricket. "This is bigger than me. It’s about putting Italian cricket on the map," he said.
Should Italy qualify, they would join the likes of Namibia and Scotland as Associate nations making waves on the global stage. The 2024 T20 World Cup could feature a Cinderella story if Burns and his team seize their moment.
The semi-final against Germany takes place on July 28, with the winner advancing to the final and securing a World Cup spot. For Burns, it’s a chance to etch his name—and Italy’s—into cricketing history.