In a significant setback for Italian cricket, former Australian Test opener Joe Burns will not be part of Italy's squad for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2025. The Italian Cricket Federation (FCI) confirmed his omission on Wednesday, citing unresolved availability and contractual issues.
Contractual Deadlock Leads to Omission
The federation stated that while preliminary discussions about Burns's availability had occurred in recent weeks, a formal agreement was never finalized. Consequently, no contract was signed, leading to the decision to leave him out of the historic campaign. Burns, who made his Italy debut in 2024 and was appointed captain earlier this year, played a pivotal role in securing Italy's first-ever qualification for a global ICC event during the European T20 World Cup Qualifiers.
Leadership Change and New Captain
With Burns out, the federation has appointed experienced campaigner Wayne Madsen as the new captain. The decision was made following internal technical and organisational assessments, with the FCI emphasising the need for "stability, harmony and continuity" ahead of the team's maiden World Cup appearance. Madsen's appointment was confirmed in late November.
The 36-year-old Burns, who last played for Australia in 2020, became eligible for Italy after completing the mandatory cooling-off period. His qualification stems from strong family roots in Calabria; his grandfather migrated to Australia after being a prisoner of war during World War II. Burns also paid tribute to his late brother, Dominic, by wearing the jersey number 85.
Italy's Road Ahead and World Cup Schedule
Captain Wayne Madsen will now lead Italy in a bilateral series against Ireland in January as preparation for the T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. Italy, placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, and Nepal, will open their campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9.
The Italian Cricket Federation acknowledged Burns's immense contributions, thanking him for his role in what it called "one of the most important chapters in Italian cricket history." A proven performer with four centuries in 23 Tests for Australia, Burns's experience was deemed invaluable during the qualification phase. He was also involved in Italy's 50-over Challenge League campaign for the 2027 ODI World Cup pathway.
While the final squad for the tournament is yet to be announced, Burns's absence marks a major shift for the European side as they gear up for their biggest cricketing challenge on the world stage in India and Sri Lanka.
