Former Australian Test opener Joe Burns makes history with brave ton for Italy
Joe Burns was an underrated Test opener for Australia, but he has saved his most important innings for Italy, his adopted country, blazing an emotional century close to his heart.
Former Test batsman Joe Burns has paid the ultimate tribute to his late brother, smashing a maiden international century for Italy to etch his name in the record books.
Burns announced last month in an emotional social media post that he was switching allegiances to Italy in a bid to help the associate nation qualify for the next World Cup as a way of honouring his brother who passed away earlier this year.
The 34-year-old has Italian heritage from his grandparents who came to Australia to start a new life.
Burns’ massive 52-ball century against Romania in a qualifier for the next T20 World Cup has earned him a rare place in cricket history as one of only six players to have scored centuries for two different countries in internationals.
The big knock helped Italy to a giant 160-run win and Italy’s qualification bid is building nicely.
Burns is wearing jersey No.85 for Italy, which was his brother’s club cricket number in Brisbane.
“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,” he 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.
“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 had an underrated Test career for Australia where he made four Test centuries and averaged 37.
But he has revealed his motivation for wanting to represent Italy.
“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,” he wrote.
“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 Italians are currently competing in Rome in a bid to qualify for the next T20 World Cup in 2026.
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