Former Australian batter Joe Burns is ready to make a late-career switch to ply his commerce for Italy in a bid to play the 2026 T20 World Cup, which takes place in India. Burns took to Instagram on Tuesday, May 28 to reveal his brother’s death earlier this 12 months and as a tribute to him, he will likely be carrying the jersey No 85. Burns shared photos of his jersey for Italy with the quantity 85, which his brother wore in membership cricket.
Burns did not play for Queensland in the final spherical matches in the Sheffield Shield and was dropped from his state staff’s contract record for 2024-25. Burns’ three-year Big Bash League contract with the Melbourne Stars additionally got here to an finish. Still mourning his brother’s death, Burns hoped that his brother’s jersey quantity will maintain him sturdy as he and his household have not been ready to deal with the loss however talked about that he nonetheless desires to play for him.
“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 an elaborate Instagram put up. “In February of this 12 months my brother sadly handed away. 85 was his quantity in the final staff he performed (and his delivery 12 months) 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. 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 added.
Burns certified to play for Italy by way of his mom’s heritage and talked about that he desires to return to his roots. Italy are grouped with France, Isle of Man, Luxembourg and Turkey in the sub-regional qualifiers, set to happen in Rome from June 9-16, which is the pathway for the qualification of T20 World Cup 2026.
“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,” Burns continued in his put up. “They discovered a approach to make it work by way of adversity and this has at all times given me solace by way of life’s classes.
“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,” Burns signed off.
