Joe Burns scored century for Italy cricket team vs Romania (Twitter)

In a defining moment for the Italy cricket team, former Australian Test opener Joe Burns hit a historic century to lead Italy to a commanding win over Romania in the T20 World Cup 2026 Europe Qualifier.

The Italy vs Romania cricket match, held on Sunday, saw Burns score an electrifying 108 not out from 55 balls, helping Italy post a formidable 244-4.

Joe Burns century: Former Aussie opener creates history as sixth dual international centurion

The opening partnership between Burns and Justin Mosca contributed a robust 106 runs, setting a solid foundation. Joe Burns’ partnerships, including a subsequent 71-run stand with Anthony Mosca, showcased Italy’s strong batting lineup.

His unbeaten innings included 12 fours and four sixes, marking his first T20 international century and making him the sixth cricketer to score international centuries for two different countries. The right-hander has notched four Test centuries for Australia.

In response, Romania struggled and was all out for just 84, thanks largely to the effective bowling of the Italy cricket team.

Crishan Kalugamage led the attack with three wickets, while Jaspreet Singh, Thomas Draca, and Stefano di Bartolomeo each took two. Harry Manenti also contributed with a key dismissal, rounding off a dominant performance by Italy.

The illustrious list of players to score centuries for two countries includes Keppler Wessels, who scored tons for both Australia and South Africa; Ed Joyce, who achieved the feat for England and Ireland; Mark Chapman, who reached the milestone for Hong Kong and New Zealand; Eoin Morgan, for England and Ireland; and Gary Ballance, who notched centuries for England and Zimbabwe.

The Italy cricket team, with Burns in scintillating form and a well-rounded squad, continues their journey towards the World Cup. The 2026 T20 World Cup, set to be hosted by Sri Lanka and India, will feature 20 teams, with Italy aiming to secure one of the coveted spots.

As the Italy vs Romania cricket match showed, with Burns as their linchpin, the Italy cricket team has found a new hero. His bat is inspiring a nation and creating a path towards Italy’s maiden T20 World Cup appearance.