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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 15-man squad: Madsen (c), Smuts, Manenti brothers
- 2🏆 Italy's maiden T20 WC in Group C with Bangladesh, England
- 3💡 Ex-SA star Smuts adds allround firepower to attack
- 4🔮 Qualifier heroes eye upsets on Indian spin tracks
"Wayne Madsen to lead 15-member group that includes former SA international JJ Smuts"
Wayne Madsen will captain Italy in their historic debut at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, heading a 15-man squad packed with firepower including ex-South Africa allrounder JJ Smuts.
Dropped into Group C alongside giants like Bangladesh, England, Nepal, and West Indies, Italy's qualification story is pure underdog magic. The squad boasts brotherly bonds with Harry Manenti and Benjamin Manenti, plus JJ Smuts bringing Proteas pedigree to the Blue Shirts' batting and spin attack.
Underdog Dreams in Group C
Madsen, the Derbyshire stalwart who switched allegiance, leads a unit blending European grit with international nous. Smuts, with his T20 nous from SA franchises, could be the X-factor against subcontinental spin. Italy's path to the World Cup was a qualifier thriller, now they face the big boys on Indian pitches that test all skills.
For Indian fans, this adds spice—England and West Indies in the mix means potential upsets. Italy's fearless approach echoes minnows shocking giants in past T20 WCs. Watch this space as Madsen aims to script history.
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