Australia's T20 World Cup Squad Shake-Up: Cummins Injured, Smith Snubbed
In a significant blow to Australia's T20 World Cup aspirations, star fast bowler Pat Cummins has been officially ruled out of the squad for the 2026 tournament due to a persistent back concern. The decision comes as selectors have also chosen to overlook former Test captain Steve Smith, despite his recent explosive form in domestic cricket.
Injury Sidelines Cummins as Selectors Make Tough Calls
Cummins, who has been grappling with a niggling back injury for over six months, will miss the upcoming campaign as he continues his recovery. Australia's selectors have opted not to risk the pace spearhead, instead turning to Ben Dwarshuis of the Sydney Sixers as a late replacement. Dwarshuis brings a left-arm pace option to the squad, alongside dynamic fielding and lower-order hitting capabilities.
Selector Tony Dodemaide explained the decision, stating, "With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late order hitting. We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and overall structure of the squad."
Smith's Late Surge Not Enough for Selection
In a surprising move, Steve Smith has been omitted from the final squad despite delivering a blistering cameo for the Sydney Sixers in the recent Big Bash League season. His late-season form had sparked calls for inclusion, but selectors have instead favoured other options, leaving the batting maestro out of the T20 World Cup plans.
This decision underscores the competitive nature of Australia's white-ball selections, with Smith's experience ultimately not enough to secure a spot in the revised lineup.
Renshaw's Rapid Rise Earns World Cup Nod
Adding to the squad changes, former Test opener Matt Renshaw has received a late call-up, just two days after making his T20 international debut in Pakistan. Renshaw replaces Matt Short and brings versatility to the middle order, particularly valuable given the spin-friendly conditions expected in Sri Lanka during the pool stages.
Dodemaide highlighted Renshaw's attributes, noting, "Matt has impressed in all formats of late, including in multiple roles in white ball formats for Australia, the Queensland Bulls and the Brisbane Heat. With the top order settled and spin heavy conditions expected, we also feel Matt provides extra middle order support. As a left hander, he also offers a point of difference to the middle order batting."
Australia's Revised Squad and Tournament Outlook
The revised Australian squad for the T20 World Cup is now set, with Mitch Marsh leading the side. The team will play another T20 against Pakistan following their opening loss, before commencing their World Cup campaign against Ireland on 11 February in Colombo.
Australia's T20 World Cup Squad:
- Mitch Marsh (captain)
- Xavier Bartlett
- Cooper Connolly
- Tim David
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Cameron Green
- Nathan Ellis
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Matt Kuhnemann
- Glenn Maxwell
- Matt Renshaw
- Marcus Stoinis
- Adam Zampa
With these changes, Australia enters the tournament with a reshaped squad, balancing injury management and form considerations as they aim for T20 World Cup success.
