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Federazione Cricket Italia has appointed Wayne Madsen as the new captain for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Joe Burns, who leads the team and played a key role in guiding Italy to their first T20 World Cup qualification, will not be in the squad.
Burns represents the Italian national team at the 2024 tournament in Rome and Uganda. The former Australia batsman also leads the team in the inaugural Men’s T20 World Cup in a crucial qualifier in the Netherlands in July 2025. His absence from the upcoming squad is a big change for the Italian cricket world.
Joe Burns will not be selected for Italy squad – Italian Cricket Federation
The Italian Cricket Board has confirmed that Joe Burns will not join the squad as talks over his availability failed to reach a formal agreement. Despite preliminary discussions in recent weeks, the parties have been unable to finalize terms or sign a contract. The federation has also backed Wayne Madsen as the new captain.
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“Madsen brings a wealth of international and domestic experience to the position, having already represented Italy in T20Is and remaining a central figure in the team’s leadership group,” the Italian governing body said in a statement.
“The federation can also confirm that Joe Burns will not be included in the squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Italy.”
“Despite preliminary exchanges of availability taking place in recent weeks, a full agreement was never reached and therefore no formal contract was signed.”
Sincere thanks to Joe Burns for his service – Italian Cricket Federation
The board said excluding Burns was a calculated choice and did not reflect his recent contributions. As the team prepares for the biggest tournament in its history, the Football Association said its priority is long-term stability and a stable leadership team.
“In the meantime, internal technical and organizational reviews have resulted in Wayne Madsen being selected as captain,” the statement added.
“This decision was made to meet the need to ensure the stability, harmony and continuity of the squad, factors that were deemed to be more important than short-term goals. These considerations were made solely to prepare and maintain calm for the national team ahead of this historic event.”
“The federation wishes to express its sincere gratitude to Joe Burns for his contribution to Italian cricket both as a player and as a captain.”
Italy to start T20 World Cup against Bangladesh
Joe Burns has played a major role in Italy’s recent success. He participated in the T20 World Cup European division and regional qualifiers and served as captain in the finals, helping Italy qualify.
The former Australia player has also represented Italy in the 50-over Challenge League as part of the road to the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Italy will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh on February 9 in Kolkata. They will also face England, West Indies and Nepal in Group C. The Italian Football Federation said it would not comment further on individual players.
