Joe Burns, the former Australia international who captained Italy to a historic first-ever ICC Men’s T20 World Cup qualification, will not be part of the Azzurri squad for the global tournament in India and Sri Lanka next year.

And at the heart of this journey stood Burns -- former Australia Test opener, now captain of Italy -- a man playing for far more than just cricket.

"The fields of Rome may be a long way from the Gabba, MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) or our front yard growing up. But I feel like I'm coming home. Grazie."

David Warner and his new opening partner Joe Burns weathered the new ball spells of Tim Southee and Trent Boult before accelerating to a stand of 161 batting first after winning the toss.