Thomas Draca

Thomas Draca is an Australian-born right-arm medium-fast bowler who has become a headline figure for the Italian national team leading into the 2026 T20 World Cup. Born on October 23, 2000, in Sydney, Draca qualifies for Italy through his mother and has quickly risen from the grade cricket circuits of Australia to the global franchise stage. Mentored by the legendary Dennis Lillee, whom he shares a close bond with, Draca is known for his 'skiddy' pace and tactical discipline. He made history in 2024 by becoming the first Italian cricketer to register for the IPL mega-auction, signaling a new era of visibility for Italian cricket on the world stage.

Statistically, Draca has been a prolific force since his international debut against Luxembourg in June 2024. In his early T20I career, he has claimed 8 wickets in 7 matches with an exceptional economy rate of 5.39 and career-best figures of 3/9 against the Isle of Man. His franchise breakthrough came in the 2024 Global T20 Canada, where he finished as the top wicket-taker for the Brampton Wolves with 11 scalps in just 6 games. This success earned him a contract with MI Emirates in the ILT20 and a stint with the Lumbini Lions in the Nepal Premier League. As Italy prepares for its debut World Cup appearance in Group C, Draca’s ability to take top-order wickets and his experience in high-pressure leagues will be essential for the 'Azzurri.'