Former Australia Cricketer Joe Burns to Play For Italy as Tribute to Late Brother

Former Australia Test batter Joe Burns has revealed he’s going to represent Italy in the qualifiers which will serve as pathway to the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup. Burns has made the decision to honour the memory of his brother who passed away earlier this year in February.

Burns represented Australia in 23 Tests and six ODIs between 2014 and 2020 scoring a combined 1588 runs with four centuries and eight half-centuries.

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The 34-year-old on Instagram revealed his brother died in February this year and he’s found it difficult to deal with the loss.

“This isn’t just a number and this isn’t just a jersey. This is for the people who I know will be looking down proudly from above,” Burns wrote.

“In February of this year my brother sadly passed away. 85 was his number in the last team he played (and his birth year) for the mighty Northern Federals in sub-districts. The days, weeks and months since my brother’s death have been the toughest I could ever imagine. I’m not too proud to admit that it’s been a daily battle that I often lose,” he added.

Burns qualifies to play for Italy from his mother’s side.

The 34-year-old was dropped by Queensland last year and wasn’t given a contract for 2024-25 season either.

“While a part of my soul feels like it will always be missing, I know this shirt will carry on his spirit and give me strength. It’s the hours playing as kids and connection with him that taught me to love this game,” Burns continued.

“I often reflect on the bravery and commitment it must have taken my Grandparents when they left Italy to start a new life in Australia. “They found a way to make it work through adversity and this has always given me solace through life’s lessons.

“I’m so proud to represent Italy on our path to the 2026 World Cup. The fields of Rome may be a long way from the Gabba, MCG or our front yard growing up, but I feel like I’m coming home,” he added.

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