By Joe Burns, the former Australia opener, has confirmed that he will be representing Italy as a tribute to his late brother. Burns’ brother, Dominic, passed away in February this year. With the 34-year-old not being offered a contract by Queensland for 2024-25, the decision was made. The top-order batter is also currently out of contract in the Big Bash League. Burns, eligible to represent Italy through his mother’s heritage, will now be part of their squad for the sub-regional qualifiers. He also revealed that he will be wearing the number 85 on his jersey to honor his brother.
“This isn’t just a number and this isn’t just a jersey,” Burns wrote on his Instagram page while announcing his decision to switch to Italy. “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 (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 played 23 Tests for Australia in which he scored four centuries. He also represented them six times in ODIs.
