Australia announced its provisional squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, including injured fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, along with power-hitter Tim David.
The team also strengthened its spin department to adapt to conditions in Sri Lanka and India.
Australia will open its campaign on February 11 against Ireland in Colombo. The side will then face Zimbabwe on February 13 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on February 16 in Kandy, and Oman on February 20.
Furthermore, selectors retained Cummins despite his ongoing back issues. He last played a T20 international in June 2024 and missed the final two Ashes Tests to manage his fitness. Cricket Australia confirmed that Cummins will undergo scans later this month to determine his availability for the tournament.
Hazlewood also returned to the squad after missing the entire Ashes series due to an Achilles injury while recovering from a hamstring strain. Meanwhile, David suffered a fresh hamstring injury during the Big Bash League on Boxing Day but remains part of the provisional list.
Moreover, Australia opted for a spin-heavy approach. Left-armers Matt Kuhnemann and Cooper Connolly earned surprise call-ups, joining experienced leg-spinner Adam Zampa. Glenn Maxwell and Matthew Short will provide additional spin support.
The squad will be led by Mitchell Marsh, who continues as captain. Cricket Australia emphasised that teams have until January 31 to finalise their squads.
Australia’s Provisional Squad
- 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
ALSO READ: National Sports Governance Act Brings Major Reform in India
