Joe Burns, the former Australian opener, has announced his decision to represent Italy as a tribute to his late brother, Dominic.
Dominic passed away in February this year, and with Joe not receiving a contract from Queensland for the 2024-25 season and being out of contract in the Big Bash League, he made the choice to switch allegiances.
The top-order batsman, eligible for Italian representation through his mother’s heritage, will join Italy’s squad for the sub-regional qualifiers.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Burns revealed that he will wear the number 85 on his jersey in honor of his brother.
“This isn’t just a number and this isn’t just a jersey,” Burns wrote.
“This is for the people who I know will be looking down proudly from above.
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.
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.
“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.”
Burns, who played 23 Tests for Australia, scoring four centuries, and represented them six times in ODIs, will now embark on a new chapter in his cricketing journey with Italy.
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