Phagwara Pacer Jaspreet Singh Fuels Italy’s T20 World Cup Dream
Jaspreet Singh, a 32-year-old right-arm pacer from Phagwara, Punjab, is making waves in the cricket world as he represents Italy in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. His journey from a small town in India to the prestigious global stage is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Migration to Italy
At the age of 10, Jaspreet moved to Bergamo, Italy, with his family. His parents, Tirath Singh and Jasvir Kaur, faced the challenges of starting fresh in an unfamiliar country. They worked as factory employees while Jaspreet nurtured his passion for cricket amidst the difficulties of adapting to a new culture.
Cricketing Beginnings
Initially, cricket infrastructure in Italy was limited. Jaspreet joined the Bergamo Cricket Club but also completed a two-year electrician course to help support his family. His introduction to cricket opportunities came through local Indian expats at the gurudwara.
Relocation to England for Cricket
To pursue better cricket facilities, Jaspreet relocated to Birmingham, England. There, he played in the Birmingham & District Premier League while working as an Uber driver to balance training with financial needs. He recalled his frustration at the lack of proper cricket grounds in Italy compared to those in Punjab, motivating his move.
International Career and World Cup Aspirations
Jaspreet made his international debut for Italy in 2019 against Norway. The Italian cricket team narrowly missed qualifying for the 2024 T20 World Cup but achieved their goal in June 2025 by topping the European Regional Qualifiers. Jaspreet expressed pride in his team’s hard work and determination over the years.
Playing in India: A Dream Realized
For Jaspreet, playing on iconic Indian grounds is a deeply emotional experience. He grew up idolizing cricket legends like Kapil Dev and Sachin Tendulkar. Competing in venues such as Chidambaram Stadium, Eden Gardens, and Wankhede Stadium represents a dream come true for him and his teammates.
Hope for Improvement in Italian Cricket
Jaspreet believes exposure to the Indian conditions will enhance Italy’s cricketing capabilities. He noted that understanding the local pitch conditions and dimensions is crucial for adapting strategies. Furthermore, Jaspreet hopes that their participation in the World Cup will lead to improvements in the cricketing structure back in Italy, allowing local talent to flourish.
Conclusion
Jaspreet Singh’s story is a testament to resilience and dedication in sports. As he takes the field for Italy in the T20 World Cup, he embodies the potential of cricket to bridge cultures and inspire future generations.
