How Joe Burns paid tribute to his late brother by leading Italy to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Joe Burns-led Italy have qualified for ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

The Italian Cricket Team on Friday (11th July) scripted history by qualifying for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. They have made it to the ICC T20 World Cup for the first time. Italy reached the final of the European Qualifiers to book a berth in the marquee tournament.

Italy lost the final of the European Qualifiers against the Netherlands by nine wickets. However, since there were two slots for the European region, both teams made it to the ICC T20 WC 2026. Italy skipper Joe Burns played a vital role in the team’s journey to the ICC tournament.

Notably, Burns is a former Australian cricketer and also played some 23 tests for the Aussies. However, in 2024, he switched his national team to Italy. His brother Dominic was a domestic player in Italy and had a dream to play for the country. However, he suffered a tragic death in 2024.

Joe Burns promised his late brother to play for Italy

After his brother’s death, Joe switched to Italy to fulfill a promise he made to his late brother. After being appointed as the skipper, he led a cricket revolution in Italy and led them to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Just after Italy qualified for the ICC tournament, Burns shared a heartfelt post on his Instagram story.

“I don’t think words will ever describe emotions to this team and to this country. Sacrifice, dedication and commitment to a dream. We have walked this path into the unknown together to tour the first World Cup”, he wrote.

“I hope this team can be a beacon for everyone to connect through family, through sport and through a shared story. Many of those who walk with us forever be proud. Without them, we never have dared to dream. This is our legacy,” he further wrote.

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A post shared by Joe Burns (@joeburns441)

Meanwhile, Italy defeated a strong team like Scotland in the European Qualifiers to make their way to the T20 World Cup. The tournament will be played in India and Sri Lanka next year from February to March.

A total of 20 teams will be part of the tournament. 15 teams have already qualified for the tournament, while five more will qualify through qualifier tournaments. India are the defending champions of the ICC T20 WC.

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