Team Italy has officially qualified for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, marking their first appearance in a global cricket tournament. Despite losing their last game to the Netherlands in The Hague, Italy’s high net run rate (NRR) earned them a spot in the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
On the penultimate day of the European Qualifiers, four teams were in contention: Italy, the Netherlands, Scotland, and Jersey. Earlier in the day, Jersey defeated Scotland in a stunning last-ball victory, eliminating them. However, their hopes were dashed later when the Dutch team knocked down Italy’s 134-run total in 16.2 overs, which was just enough to confirm Italy’s qualification due to a healthier NRR.
Italy simply needed to avoid a major loss, and by pushing the Netherlands’ chase over the 15th over, they secured the necessary margin to advance. Even though the Netherlands finally won comfortably, both they and Italy gained spots in 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.
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.
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Teams qualified for the ICC T20 World Cup as of 11 July 2025
Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, England, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, USA, West Indies
