Joe Burns sacked as Italy captain ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup; board of directors issues official statement
The Italian Cricket Federation (Federazione Cricket Italia) has named Wayne Madsen as the new captain for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Joe Burns, who led the team and played a key role in guiding Italy to their first ever T20 World Cup qualification, will not be included in the squad.
Burns represented the Italian national team in tournaments in Rome and Uganda in 2024. The former Australian batter also led the team in the crucial qualifiers in the Netherlands in July 2025. The team qualified for their first Men’s T20 World Cup. His absence from the next team is a major change for Italian cricket.
Joe Burns will not be selected in the Italian squad – Italian Cricket Federation
The Italian Cricket Board have confirmed that Joe Burns will not be part of the squad after discussions over his availability failed to result in a formal agreement. Despite initial discussions in recent weeks, the two parties have failed to finalize the terms or sign a contract. The federation also backed Wayne Madsen as the new captain.
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“Madsen brings significant international and domestic experience to the role, having previously represented Italy in T20Is, and remains a central figure within the team’s leadership group,” the Italian governing body said in its statement.
“The Federation can also confirm that Joe Burns will not be selected in the Italian squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.”
“Although preliminary exchanges of availability have taken place in recent weeks, a full agreement has never been reached and, as a result, no formal contract has been signed.”
Sincere thanks to Joe Burns for his service – Italian Cricket Federation
The board said leaving Burns out was a thoughtful choice rather than a reflection of his recent contributions. As the team prepares for the biggest tournament in its history, the federation said it is prioritizing long-term stability and a stable leadership group.
“At the same time, internal technical and organizational evaluations led to the selection of Wayne Madsen as captain,” the statement added.
“This decision responds to the need to ensure the stability, harmony and continuity of the team, elements deemed priority in relation to short-term objectives. These considerations were taken solely in the interest of the preparation and serenity of the national team before this historic event.”
“The Federation would like to express its sincere thanks to Joe Burns for his services to Italian cricket, both as a player and captain.”
Italy to kick off T20 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh
Joe Burns has played an important role in Italy’s recent successes. He participated in the European T20 World Cup sub-regional and regional qualifiers and captained the team in the final tournament, which helped Italy qualify.
The former Australian player has also represented Italy in 50-over matches in the Challenge League, which is part of the pathway to the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Italy will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9. They will also face England, West Indies and Nepal in Group C. The federation said it would not make further comments on individual players.
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