After T20 World Cup 2026 debacle, Australia to conduct forensic review into failure

Australia will conduct a comprehensive review following its early group-stage exit at the T20 World Cup 2026. Losses to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe and key injuries contributed to an early elimination, prompting selectors to examine all aspects of the campaign.

A comprehensive review will be conducted by Cricket Australia after the national team failed to progress beyond the group stage of this year's T20 World Cup. The decision for a "forensic review" was confirmed immediately following the team's early exit from the competition.

Australia, who secured the title in 2021, did not advance to the Super Eights for the first time since 2009. Losses against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe proved decisive, ultimately sealing their elimination and raising questions about preparation and adaptability throughout this campaign.

Key injuries significantly impacted Australia's performance. The team missed fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, as well as all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who missed the first two matches of the campaign.

The campaign also unfolded without veteran pacer Mitchell Starc, who retired from T20 internationals prior to the event. His departure further altered the balance of the bowling attack and forced selectors to make adjustments to the original squad.

Selector Tony Dodemaide said that the full review will only be conducted once the players return from the tournament.

"It's really disappointing the way the tournament has rolled out," Dodemaide was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au."But we will need some time, and take some time, once we finish our last commitment – it's important that we finish strongly on Friday against Oman – then we'll get back and analyse it fully."