Burns’ brother Dominic passed away in February this year after representing Australia in 23 Tests between 2014 and 2020.
The opening batter was linked with Queensland since 2011 but did not manage to attain a contract for the 2024-25 domestic season in Australia.
This isn’t just a number and this isn’t just a jersey Joe Burns wrote on Instagram while sharing a picture of the Italian jersey with the number 85 on it.
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.
Notably, Joe Burns is already eligible to represent Italy due to his mother’s heritage.
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 Burns wrote on Instagram.
They found a way to make it work through adversity and this has always given me solace through life’s lessons.
It is worth mentioning here that Italy has yet to qualify for a World Cup in any format.
They narrowly missed out on sealing their spot in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as they finished third in the European Qualifiers.
I’m so proud to represent Italy on our path to the 2026 World Cup, Burns added.
The fields of Rome may be a long way from the Gabba, MCG, or our front yard growing up, but I feel like I’m coming home.
The European side will kick start their expedition to book their place in the next edition of the T20 World Cup next month at a sub-regional tournament in Rome.