Italy announced a 15-member team for the first performance ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Italy’s qualification has been hailed as a breakthrough for the country’s growing cricket establishment, and the addition of former South African batters to their squad brings invaluable international pedigree to a relatively young team facing elite opposition.
Italy will compete in Group C at the 2026 T20 World Cup
Italy have been drawn into a demanding Group C along with Bangladesh, England, Nepal and the West Indies. The group presents a tough challenge featuring a mix of established powerhouses in Nepal and an improving partner side.
The Italians will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on February 9 in Kolkata. 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 the West Indies on February 19. The compact schedule will challenge Italy’s depth, fitness and adaptability.
Wayne Madsen will captain Italy in T20 World Cup 2026
Experienced dough Wayne Madsen was appointed the captain of the multinational tournament. The change in leadership comes after a decisive move by the selectors late last year saw former Australian international Joe Burns removed as captain and then dropped from the squad after leading Italy during World Cup Qualifiers.
Madsen’s appointment signals a move towards stability and experience, with the team management relying on his ability to guide the side in unfamiliar, high-pressure environments. His calm approach and familiarity with association cricket is expected to prove crucial during Italy’s maiden World Cup campaign.
However, the inclusion of JJ Smuts stands out as one of the most important options. The former South Africa international brings experience from top-level T20 leagues and international cricket, offering Italy both tactical awareness and composure under pressure. His versatility as a top-order batsman and utility bowler provides balance to a team that will need flexibility against world-class opposition.
Smuts’ presence is expected to help the young players manage the pace, especially in reading situations and at crucial stages of matches.
Also READ: Complete T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule – February 15 India vs Pakistan
Adding a different element to Italy’s squad are two sets of brothers: Harry Manenti and Benjamin Manenti, along with 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 be without him Emilio Gayremoved from the tournament due to injury. His absence is unfortunate given his recent form, but the selectors are confident the squad has enough depth to compensate for the loss.
Italy squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Wayne Madsen (c), Marcus Campopiano, Gian Piro Meade, Zain Ali, Ali Hasan, Cression Jorge, Harry Mantney, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Mantwart, Jasreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, Thomas Drca
