The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 promises to be one of the most competitive editions of the tournament India and Sri Lanka It will host a marquee event from February 7 to March 8. Among the teams expected to make a strong push for the title is Australia, stacked with powerful batsmen, proven match-winners and experienced campaigners. The Australians, drawn in Group B along with Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe and Oman, will go into the competition as one of the favorites to advance in the tournament.
On paper, Australia’s provisional squad looks intimidating. led Mitchell Marshthe team boasts explosive batting depth, all-round versatility and a bowling attack that can thrive in subcontinental conditions. with names like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Pat Cumminsand Adam Zampathe squad seems well-balanced and experienced enough to handle pressure situations on the world stage.
However, despite the apparent strength, the former Indian opener and analyst noted Akash Chopra It is believed to be a critical concern that could derail Australia’s campaign.
Aakash Chopra highlights the weakness of Australia’s squad ahead of T20 World Cup 2026
Assessing Australia’s prospects for the tournament, Chopra pointed out that injuries could be the biggest hurdle for the reigning T20 giants. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he highlighted how a significant portion of the Australian core has struggled with fitness issues of late.
Chopra noted that fast bowlers Cummins and Josh Hazlewood Both Hazlewood and Cummins have endured injury setbacks, playing sparingly in the 2025-26 Ashes, missing long stretches of action. The worries don’t end there. Cameron GreenMaxwell and even skipper Marsh all had their careers cut short by injury.
“The biggest weakness I see is that too many players are injury-prone. Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Cameron Green and Glenn Maxwell are being talked about. There are too many people. Marsh himself is very injury-prone.” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.
According to Chopra, it’s not about talent or ability, it’s availability. He stressed that Australia were “walking on eggshells” as an untimely injury could upset the team’s balance and plan. In a tournament as intense as the T20 World Cup, where speed and consistency are essential, frequent changes caused by injuries can be costly.
Chopra further explained that injuries are an uncontrollable factor that makes this weakness even more of a concern. Unlike form or tactics, fitness issues can strike without warning and leave teams scrambling for substitutions at crucial stages.
“They’re walking on eggshells. They’re just one injury away from getting it all wrong. So you can definitely call that one of the weaknesses of this team because nobody can handle injuries,” observed.
Also READ: Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood named Australia’s squad for T20 World Cup 2026
High expectations from Australia led by Mitchell Marsh
Despite noting this weakness, expectations remain high for the Marsh-led unit. Marsh’s leadership, along with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, will be central to Australia’s campaign. Having dynamic players like Head, Tim David, Marcus Stoinisand Maxwell gives Australia the firepower to dominate any bowling attack on their day.
Cummins, Hazlewood and the pace trio in the bowling department Nathan EllisPowered by spin ace Zampa, it offers variety and experience. Besides, the players like it Matthew Short, Josh Inglisand Cooper Connolly Add flexibility to the playing XI, allowing Australia to adapt to different conditions in India and Sri Lanka.
Also READ: 4 Australian players who played in T20 World Cup 2024 but will not play in 2026
