T20 World Cup 2024: Inclusion of experienced trio enhances Italy’s qualification hopes

Even though Italy are far away from being called a developed cricketing nation, they are making a significant effort to get closer to the same. Now, with the upcoming T20 World Cup in mind, the European nation is making rapid strides as they have signed three veteran cricketers in the form of Spencer Johnson, Wayne Madsen and Ben Manenti.

Placed 32nd in the ICC Men’s T20 rankings, Italy will have to play the T20 World Cup European Qualifier, which is slated to be held in Scotland in July. In the seven-team tournament, only two of them will qualify for the next round and these three signings indicate that Italy are definitely eyeing for a spot.

Notably, Spencer Johnson is not an unknown commodity as far as Australian cricket is concerned. He featured for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL) and also played First Class cricket for Victoria. He recently clinched a five-for in the ongoing Sheffield Shield but is expected to move to Italy in July to join the squad ahead of the mega tournament.

Meanwhile, Italy’s captain cum coach, Gareth Berg mentioned that he is keen to see Johnson join the Italian squad. He also mentioned that the cricketer has suffered a lot of injuries in his career but he is someone who can bowl at 150 kmph and that will help them in the tournament.

“He's dead keen. He's going to be a huge boost for us. It's always nice to have someone that can bowl close to 150 clicks at that level. He's had quite a tough time with injuries but he's coming back pretty strong now. He's raring to get involved in July,” Berg recently told to ESPNcricinfo.

In the meantime, Berg is also aware that the team will face a lot of backlash since they have roped in professional cricketers for the tournament. However, he dismissed all the concerns and stated that he is more than happy that these cricketers in the end are playing for Italy.

“But at the end of the day, they all have the entitlement to come in and play for us through their passports or through their bloodlines. I'm more than happy for them to represent the national team.

It's not like we're throwing cash at them or anything like that. They are coming to play for the love of the blue blood, coming to play for the Azzurri. As soon as I mention it, they're straight on board with it and willing to help out. Yes, we have pros available, but we also have our local players that are pushing for spots. It's heartwarming for me and the guys working with me that these guys are pushing themselves really hard,” Berg added.

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