Australia Unveils Spin-Focused Squad for T20 World Cup: Surprising Selections and Key Injuries

Australia has announced a spin-heavy squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India, surprising fans with the inclusion of Cooper Connolly and the absence of Mitchell Starc. As the defending champions prepare for their opening match against Ireland on February 11, concerns about Pat Cummins' fitness and the recovery of other key players add to the intrigue. With squad changes allowed until January 31, the cricket world is eager to see how Australia will perform in this prestigious tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 09:49 IST

Australia's T20 World Cup Squad Announcement

Melbourne (Australia): The Australian cricket selectors have announced a squad rich in spin options for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to take place in Sri Lanka and India.

In a surprising move, the defending champions opted not to include a left-arm fast bowler following the retirement of Mitchell Starc from T20 internationals. Cooper Connolly, who has not participated in any of the last 12 T20 matches for Australia, has made an unexpected entry into the squad.

Starc, who has been a consistent presence in T20 events, has missed only one of the last six ICC tournaments but stepped away from the format at the international level late last year.

Australia's campaign kicks off on February 11 against Ireland in Colombo, followed by a match against Zimbabwe on February 13. They will then face Sri Lanka in Kandy on February 16 and Oman on February 20.

A medical scan on Pat Cummins' back later this month will determine his availability for the tournament. Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are both recovering from hamstring injuries.

According to ICC regulations, teams can make changes to their squads until January 31.

Before the World Cup, Australia will engage in a three-match T20 series against Pakistan starting later this month. All group-stage matches will be held in Sri Lanka, but the team is expected to travel to India for some Super Eights games if they advance.

___

Australia's squad includes: 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.