Burns, who had led Italy through the qualification phase, was unable to reach a formal agreement with the federation despite discussions in recent weeks. E
Photo: IANS
Italy will make their maiden appearance at the ICC men’s T20 World Cup without Joe Burns, with the Italian Cricket Federation (Federazione Cricket Italia) confirming that the former Australia international will not be part of the squad following unresolved contractual issues. The board also announced that Wayne Madsen has been appointed captain for the multi-nation tournament, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka next year.
Burns, who had led Italy through the qualification phase, was unable to reach a formal agreement with the federation despite discussions in recent weeks. Explaining the decision, the board said, “Although preliminary exchanges of availability took place in recent weeks, a full agreement was never reached and, consequently, a formal contract was not signed. At the same time, internal technical and organisational evaluations led to the selection of Wayne Madsen as captain.”
Advertisement
The 36-year-old played a central role in Italy’s historic qualification for the World Cup. He featured in both the sub-regional and regional European T20 World Cup Qualifiers during the 2026 cycle and captained the side throughout their successful campaign. Burns represented Italy in eight T20Is, including a standout unbeaten century in the Group A final of the European qualifier against Romania.
Advertisement
Under his leadership, Italy also registered notable victories over Guernsey and Scotland in the Europe Regional Final group stage, results that helped them finish second behind the Netherlands and secure their World Cup berth.
Despite Burns’ contributions, the federation stressed that the decision was taken with the long-term interests of the team in mind. “This decision responds to the need to ensure stability, harmony, and continuity for the team, elements deemed to be priorities over short-term objectives. These considerations were made solely in the interest of the national team’s preparation and serenity ahead of this historic event,” the statement added.
Madsen, a long-serving Derbyshire batter who qualifies for Italy through his grandmother, takes over the leadership role with immediate effect. He made his international debut for Italy in 2023 but missed last year’s qualifier matches due to county commitments.
Backing his appointment, the federation said: “Madsen brings significant international and domestic experience to the position, having already represented Italy in T20Is, and remains a central figure within the squad’s leadership group.”
The new captain will lead Italy in a preparatory series against Ireland ahead of the World Cup. Italy will open their campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9, before also taking on England, West Indies and Nepal in their group stage fixtures.
Advertisement
