Key points
- Wayne Madsen appointed T20 captain
- Qualified via Europe Regional Qualifier
ISLAMABAD: Italy have announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, marking the country’s first appearance at a senior men’s World Cup.
The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will run from February 7 to March 8 and feature 20 teams competing across four groups.
Wayne Madsen has been named captain of the Italian side, which includes a blend of experience and emerging talent. Former South Africa international JJ Smuts has been selected, while brothers Harry and Benjamin Manenti, along with Anthony and Justin Mosca, also feature in the squad.
Italy secured qualification for the global event by finishing second behind the Netherlands at the Europe Regional Qualifier in July 2025. The campaign was previously led by former Australia international Joe Burns, who was later removed as captain and dropped from the squad.
Coaching staff
The coaching staff will be headed by former Australia international John Davison, with Ireland great Kevin O’Brien and former Scotland coach Dougie Brown serving as assistant coaches.
Italy have been placed in Group C alongside Bangladesh, England, Nepal and West Indies. They will open their campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9, before facing Nepal in Mumbai on February 12.
The side will then return to Kolkata to play England on February 16 and West Indies on February 19, as they look to progress beyond the group stage in their maiden World Cup outing.
Italy squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026:
Zain Ali, Marcus Campopiano (wk), Ali Hasan, Crishan Kalugamage, Wayne Madsen (c), Harry Manenti, Gian Piero Meade, Anthony Mosca, Justin Mosca, Syed Naqvi, Benjamin Manenti, Jaspreet Singh, JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart and Thomas Draca.
