Former Australia opener Joe Burns smashes remarkable ton for Italy

The former Australia opener has played five times for his adopted country

Ciaran McCarthy | 17/06/2024 at 09:45

Joe Burns smashed a remarkable 108 not out from 55 deliveries for Italy in a European T20 World Cup qualifier against Romania.

The former Australia opener, who played 23 Test matches, made the decision to switch to Italy recently, having been left off of Queensland's contract list for the coming season.

He's eligible for Italy through his mother's heritage, and opted to represent them and honour his late brother, who passed away earlier this year.

Explaining his decision, Burns said: "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.

"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 has now played five games for Italy, and in his fifth, against Romania, he smashed a remarkable ton, the first time he has reached three figures in T20I cricket.

The opener batted for the entire innings, blasting 108 from 55 balls, including 12 fours and four sixes, as Italy posted a mammoth 244 for 4.

They then bowled Romania out for 84, confirming a 160-run victory, and Burns was named player of the match.

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