Italy Has announced a 15-man squad for its first appearance in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Italy’s qualification has been seen as a success for the country’s growing cricket structure, and the inclusion of ex-South African batsmen in their squad provides invaluable international heritage to a relatively young team facing elite opposition.
Group C challenge awaits Italy in T20 World Cup 2026
Italy have been drawn into a tough Group C along with Bangladesh, England, Nepal and West Indies. The group presents a tough test, involving a mix of established powers in Nepal and a superior allied side.
The Italians begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9. They will then travel to Mumbai to face Nepal on February 12, before returning to Kolkata for back-to-back matches against England on February 16 and West Indies on February 19. The compact schedule will challenge Italy’s depth, fitness and adaptability to different conditions.
Wayne Madsen will be the captain of Italy in T20 World Cup 2026
experienced batsman wayne madsen Has been appointed captain for the multi-nation tournament. The leadership change follows a decisive move by the selectors late last year, when former Australia international Joe Burns was dropped as captain and later dropped from the squad after leading Italy during the World Cup qualifiers.
Madsen’s appointment signals a shift towards stability and experience, with the team management confident in his ability to guide the team through an unfamiliar, high-pressure environment. His calm approach and familiarity with associate cricket is expected to be vital during Italy’s maiden World Cup campaign.
However, the inclusion of JJ Smits Has emerged as one of the most important selections. The former South Africa international brings experience from top-level T20 leagues and international cricket, providing Italy with both tactical awareness and composure under pressure. His versatility as a top-order batsman and useful bowler provides balance to a team that will need flexibility against world-class opponents.
Smits’ presence is also expected to help the younger players, especially in reading situations and managing pace during crucial stages of matches.
Also read: Complete schedule of T20 World Cup 2026 – India vs Pakistan on 15 February
Two sets of brothers are adding a distinctive element to the Italy team: Harry Manenti and Benjamin Manenti, as well as Anthony Mosca and Justin Mosca. The family ties reflect the close-knit nature of Italian cricket and add an emotional dimension to the team’s historic journey.
Meanwhile, Italy will remain without emilio gayWho is out of the tournament due to injury. His absence is a blow given his recent form, but the selectors are confident that the squad has enough depth to compensate for the loss.
Italy team for T20 World Cup 2026
Wayne Madsen (captain), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piero Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Christian George, Harry Manenti, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smits, Grant Stewart, Thomas Dreka.
