Italy has announced the 15-player squad for their first-ever participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The Azzurri will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh on February 9 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by a match against Nepal on February 12 in Mumbai.
Wayne Madsen has been designated as the captain of the European team for the upcoming tournament. A notable inclusion in the squad is all-rounder JJ Smuts, who brings his experience from playing 13 T20Is for South Africa. Unfortunately, Emilio Gay will miss the tournament due to an injury.
Italy secured their spot in the tournament after an impressive performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier 2025, finishing in second place with victories over Scotland and Guernsey, thus qualifying alongside the Netherlands.
Their journey to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 took a significant stride when they defeated Scotland by 12 runs in a crucial match. The Italian team will be guided by head coach John Davison, assisted by Kevin O’Brien and Douglas Brown, with Peter Di Venuto taking on the role of manager.
Italy finds themselves in Group C alongside powerhouse teams like England and West Indies, as well as Bangladesh and Nepal. The squad comprises Wayne Madsen (c), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Crishan Jorge, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, and Thomas Draca.