Australia have unveiled a spin-focused squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be held in Sri Lanka and India from February 7. The champions from the 2021 edition have left out several high-profile names. The most eye-catching omission is Hobart Hurricanes power-hitter Mitchell Owen, whose recent Big Bash League exploits made him a top contender.
However, a series of poor results in the recent BBL outings may have cost him his place. Notably, he has registered a top score of 32 in his last five matches in the ongoing BBL. The selectors have stacked the 15-man group with multiple slow-bowling options, with Matthew Kuhnemann set to make his T20 World Cup debut.
The biggest surprise is the recall of Cooper Connolly. The all-rounder has not featured in any of Australia’s last 12 T20 Internationals but has still forced his way back into contention on the back of consistent domestic performances. Cameron Green has also secured a place in the squad that will be led by Mitchell Marsh. Pat Cummins, Tim David and Josh Hazlewood have also been included in the squad.
"The T20 side has enjoyed a long run of recent success which enabled the panel to choose a balance of players across the variety of conditions Sri Lanka and India may present," selection chair
Bailey said.
"Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are tracking well and we are confident they will be available for the World Cup."
"This is a preliminary squad so should changes need to be made they will ahead of the support period."
Australia T20I World Cup squad: Mitchell Marsh, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.