Team UAE holds narrow lead against Team Qatar in thrilling Men’s Championship showdown at Ajman’s Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club
sports1 day ago
Former Australia Test opener Joe Burns has switched allegiance to Italy in a bid to help the Europeans qualify for the 2026 T20 World Cup as a tribute to his late brother.
Burns, who played 23 Tests from 2014-20, was left out of Queensland state's contracts list for the coming domestic season in Australia and has been mourning his brother's death in February.
Burns wrote about his grief in a social media post with a picture of a blue Italy shirt with the number 85 his brother wore at his amateur cricket club in Queensland.
"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," said Burns.
"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."
Italy, who have never played at a World Cup in any format, finished third in European qualifying to miss out on the coming T20 World Cup in the United States and the Caribbean.
Europe's top two finishers Scotland and Ireland booked their places in the 20-team tournament, which starts on Saturday.
Italy will try again at a sub-regional tournament in Rome next month as part of the qualifying phase for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
"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," said Burns.
ALSO READ:
Team UAE holds narrow lead against Team Qatar in thrilling Men’s Championship showdown at Ajman’s Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club
sports1 day ago
The right-handed batter smashed 52 runs in 18 balls, helping his side to a memorable nine-wicket win over Ajman Bolts
sports1 day ago
The Dubai-born talent says he’s excited for the next rounds at Landings Golf & Athletic Club, Deer Creek, Georgia and is loving the challenge of competitive golf
sports2 days ago
A new Champion will be crowned at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club on Thursday
sports2 days ago
At the Jumeirah Golf Estates, Bertoche transformed the DP World Tour Championship's atmosphere into art
sports2 days ago
Host UAE’s Rayan Ahmed and Ahmad Skaik shine in second place as Adam Bresnusets the pace at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in Ajman
sports2 days ago
The Emirati golf icon recalls the emotional moment that brought back memories of a lifelong friendship with the Spanish great
sports3 days ago
Missed opportunities: 'The course was there for the taking If only my putting had been better,” admits the Dubai-born golfer
sports3 days ago