Cricket Australia has announced a spin-heavy preliminary squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The squad will once again be led by Mitchell Marsh, who continues as captain following Australia’s recent success in the shortest format.
Several key players have been included despite ongoing injury recoveries, highlighting the selectors’ confidence in their fitness ahead of the global tournament.
Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Tim David have all been named in the provisional squad and are expected to be available in time for the World Cup.
Australia’s selection reflects a clear focus on adapting to subcontinent conditions, with matches scheduled to be played in Colombo and Pallekele. Anticipating spin-friendly pitches, selectors have opted for a bowling attack rich in spin options.
Adam Zampa will lead the spin department, supported by Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, and Matthew Short, giving the team flexibility across different match situations.
Mitchell Marsh will captain a balanced 15-member squad that blends experience with youth. The return of Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly, who missed the recent T20I series against India, adds depth to both the batting and bowling units. Josh Inglis has been named as the sole wicketkeeper in the squad.
The T20 side has enjoyed a long run of recent success, which enabled us to choose a balanced group of players for the conditions we expect,” Bailey said.
On the fitness front, Pat Cummins is recovering from a back injury and has played limited cricket recently, featuring only in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide.
He is scheduled to undergo a scan later this month, which will determine his final availability.
Tim David is returning from a grade-two hamstring injury suffered during the Big Bash League, while Josh Hazlewood continues his recovery from Achilles soreness.
Bailey added that all three players are “tracking well” and remain firmly in contention for the tournament.
Australia 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, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
