The Italian Cricket Federation confirmed the 15-member squad late Thursday, with experienced right-hander Wayne Madsen appointed captain. The tournament will be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.

Smuts, who previously represented South Africa in limited-overs internationals, adds international pedigree to an Italian side that has largely relied on associate-level experience. His inclusion is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Italy’s batting depth as the team prepares to face established cricketing nations.

Italy secured qualification for the T20 World Cup by finishing second in the European qualifiers, behind the Netherlands. Burns, a former Australian Test opener, led the side through the qualifying campaign but was removed as captain and left out of the final squad following the tournament. No official reason was cited, though selectors indicated the decision was part of a broader team restructuring ahead of the World Cup.

Madsen, who has featured in four T20 Internationals and brings experience from domestic leagues including the Bangladesh Premier League, will lead the side. The squad also features two sets of brothers—Harry and Benjamin Manenti, along with Anthony and Justin Mosca—highlighting the close-knit nature of Italy’s cricketing setup.

Italy has been drawn into Group C, alongside England, Bangladesh, the West Indies and Nepal. The team will open its campaign against Bangladesh in Kolkata on February 9, followed by matches against Nepal on February 12, England on February 16, and the West Indies on February 19.

The coaching staff includes head coach Jon Davison and former Ireland captain Kevin O’Brien as assistant coach, a combination the federation believes will help the team navigate the pressures of a global tournament.

Tournament officials said the T20 World Cup will feature 20 teams divided into four groups, with the top two from each group advancing to the Super 8 stage. From there, the top sides will progress to the semi-finals and final.

For Italy, the World Cup represents more than results. Officials see the tournament as a platform to raise the profile of cricket in the country and build momentum for long-term development, with the inclusion of experienced players such as Smuts expected to play a key role.