Former Australian opener Joe Burns has announced a heartfelt switch to the Italian cricket team, dedicating his move to the memory of his late brother, Dominic. Burns, who has represented Australia in 23 Tests and six ODIs, will don the Italian jersey for the sub-regional qualifiers, marking a poignant chapter in his cricketing career.
Honouring His Brother
Dominic Burns tragically passed away in February 2024, leaving a significant impact on Joe. The 34-year-old cricketer revealed that he would be wearing the number 85 jersey in tribute to Dominic, who wore the same number for the Northern Federals in sub-district cricket. The number also signifies Dominic’s birth year, 1985.
“This isn’t just a number and this isn’t just a jersey,” Burns shared on his Instagram. “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 for the mighty Northern Federals in sub-districts.”
Burns candidly expressed the emotional toll of his brother’s death, describing it as a daily battle. “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.”
A Tribute Through Heritage
Burns is eligible to represent Italy through his mother’s heritage. He sees this as a tribute not only to his brother but also to his Italian roots. Reflecting on his family’s history, Burns said, “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’ decision to switch comes after Queensland did not offer him a contract for the 2024-25 season. Additionally, his contract in the Big Bash League has also ended, prompting this significant career shift.
Having scored four centuries in his 23-Test career for Australia, Burns brings a wealth of experience to the Italian team. His participation is expected to bolster Italy’s chances in the sub-regional qualifiers and beyond.
Future Prospects with Italy
Burns’ inclusion in the Italian squad is seen as a boost for the team’s aspirations towards the 2026 T20 World Cup. His experience at the highest level of cricket will be invaluable as Italy navigates the competitive landscape of international cricket.
Burns’ heartfelt message on social media concluded with a forward-looking perspective. “It’s the hours playing as kids and connection with him that taught me to love this game. This shirt will carry on his spirit and give me strength.”
As Joe Burns steps onto the field wearing the number 85, he carries with him the memory of his brother and the legacy of his family’s courage, making his new journey with Italy both a personal and a symbolic tribute.
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