- Web Desk
- 57 Minutes ago
Australia announces T20 World Cup 2026 squad; Mitchell Marsh to lead with surprising picks
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- Web Desk
- 1 Hour ago
SYDNEY: Mitchell Marsh has been named captain of Australia’s provisional squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, as selectors announced a 15-member group that blends experience with conditions-based planning for the tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Cricket Australia confirmed the squad on Saturday, with final team submissions due by January 31. The T20 World Cup is scheduled to begin on February 7, with Australia set to play their group-stage matches in Sri Lanka.
Despite ongoing injury concerns, selectors have retained Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David, expressing confidence in their recovery timelines. Cummins, who last played a T20 international in mid-2024, has been managing a recurring back issue and was rested from parts of the current Ashes series. He is expected to undergo medical scans later this month to assess his readiness for the global event.
Hazlewood has also been sidelined recently, missing the Ashes due to Achilles and hamstring problems, while power-hitter Tim David is being monitored after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Big Bash League. Chief selector George Bailey said all three players are progressing well and are expected to be available when the tournament begins.
With an eye on the spin-friendly conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka, Australia have strengthened their slow-bowling options by including left-arm spinners Matt Kuhnemann and Cooper Connolly. They will support frontline leg-spinner Adam Zampa, with Glenn Maxwell and Matthew Short offering additional spin depth.
Australia, who lifted the T20 World Cup in 2021, will open their 2026 campaign against Ireland on February 11.
Australia’s provisional squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wicketkeeper), Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
