Italy create history by qualifying for 2026 T20 World Cup

Former Australian player Joe Burns led Italy to qualify for their maiden T20 World Cup.

Published - 12 Jul 2025, 09:33 IST | Updated - 12 Jul 2025, 10:00 IST

2 Min Read

Team Italy have officially secured their spot in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, their first-ever appearance in a global cricket tournament. Despite losing their final game to the Netherlands in The Hague, Italy’s strong net run-rate (NRR) led them to a spot in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

Heading into the final day of the European Qualifiers, four teams, Italy, the Netherlands, Scotland, and Jersey, were in contention. Earlier in the day, Jersey pulled off a thrilling last-ball victory over Scotland, knocking out the latter. But their chances were quashed later when the Dutch team chased down Italy’s 134-run total in 16.2 overs, just enough to confirm Italy’s qualification thanks to a healthier NRR.

Italy only needed to avoid a big loss, and by pushing the Netherlands' chase past the 15th over, they secured the margin required to progress. Even though the Netherlands eventually won comfortably, both they and Italy earned tickets to the 2026 T20 World Cup.

This is our legacy: Italy skipper Joe Burns

After choosing to bat, Italy lost openers Justin Mosca and Emilio Gay early. Skipper Joe Burns tried to anchor the innings but was dismissed for 22. Wicketkeeper-batter Marcus Campopiano soon followed, falling for a seven-ball two. However, Benjamin Manenti played a stabilizing knock, while Grant Stewart’s late cameo of 25 off 16 balls and contributions from Anthony Mosca ensured the team posted 134/7.

Italy's Joe Burns reacts with T20 WC qualification in sight

Italy's Joe Burns reacts with T20 WC qualification in sight

In the chase, the Dutch openers Max O'Dowd and Michael Levitt hammered 66 in the powerplay. However, Crishan Kalugamage's breakthrough and Harry Manenti’s consistent tournament were the reasons to push the Dutch team over 16 overs. Burns, the former Australian player now leading Italy, took to his social media after the game to express his emotions.

"I don’t think words will ever describe my emotions to this team and to this country. Sacrifice, dedication and commitment to a dream - we have walked this path into the unknown together to our first World Cup. Guided by the inspiration of those at home, around the world or looking down from above. For the ones who have gone before and for generations to come. I hope this team can be a beacon for everyone to connect through family, through sport and through a shared story. May those who walk with us forever be proud. Without them, we never would have dared to dream. This is our legacy. Thank you," Joe Burns wrote on his Instagram post.