Former Australian cricketer Joe Burns is in headlines after reports reveal that the 34-year-old is making a heartfelt return to the pitch due to his brother and cricketer Dominic Burns who died earlier this year
For the unfamiliar, standing at 182 cm (6 ft 0 in), the right-handed batter is returning this time donning the colors of Italy in a bid to honor his late brother, Dominic, and propel the team toward the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Following his recent omission from Queensland’s lineup and a contract miss for the upcoming domestic season, Burns took to Instagram to share his poignant decision.
Who is cricketer Dominic Burns brother of Joe Burns who played cricket in Italy, cause of death, bio and age
Wearing the number 85 on his back, a tribute to his brother’s final stint with the Northern Federals, Burns expressed the profound significance behind the jersey.
“This isn’t just a number or a jersey. It’s a symbol of remembrance for those watching from above,” he conveyed, reminiscing about his brother’s legacy and the bond they shared on the field.
Burns has Italian heritage through his mother.
The 34-year-old, lost his brother Dominic in February aged 39 with Dominic having been born in 1985. Joe is yet to reveal what happened to his elder brother and how Dominic passed away. Dominic played for Northern Federals in sub-districts.
Reflecting on his family’s journey from Italy to Australia, Burns acknowledged the courage and determination of his grandparents. “Their resilience in starting anew has always inspired me,” he remarked, drawing strength from their example amidst life’s trials.
JOE BURNS, FORMER AUSTRALIAN CRICKETER WILL PLAY FOR ITALY…!!!
– He will represent Italy as a tribute for his late Brother, his brother passed away in February & will be wearing Number 85 to honour him. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/tBWfkMZjNK
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 28, 2024
For Italy, a nation yet to grace cricket’s world stage, the upcoming sub-regional tournament in Rome presents a pivotal opportunity.
“Though Rome’s fields may seem distant from the Gabba or MCG, it feels like a homecoming,” Burns expressed, embracing the chance to write a new chapter in his cricketing journey.
About Joe Burns
Joseph Anthony Burns, born on September 6, 1989, is an Australian cricketer renowned for his contributions to the Australia national cricket team.
Born in Herston, Queensland, Australia, Burns also played for the Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League and Queensland in Australian domestic cricket.
Coming from a background where both of his parents were educators, Burns developed his cricketing skills from a young age, showing promise without necessarily being hailed as a prodigy. Raised in the northern suburbs of Brisbane, he pursued his education at Nudgee College.
In a surprising move in May 2024, he declared his intention to relocate to Italy with aspirations of representing the Italy national cricket team in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup.
Qualifying to play for Italy through his maternal lineage, Burns joins the squad as they prepare to face off against France, Isle of Man, Luxembourg, and Turkey in the regional qualifiers for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.
The matches, slated between June 9-16, hold the key to Italy’s aspirations of making history on the global cricketing map. With a Test career marked by 23 appearances and notable contributions totaling 1442 runs, including four centuries, Burns brings a wealth of experience to Italy’s campaign.
Despite his last international outing for Australia in 2020, his passion for the game and dedication to honoring his brother’s memory fuel his new endeavor with the Italian team.