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.