England's Jacob Bethell enjoying Australia's early T20 World Cup exit: Good to see

T20 World Cup: England's Jacob Bethell could not resist a cheeky dig at Australia after their group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup 2026. While England moved into the Super 8s, their Ashes rivals were left to reflect on a campaign that unravelled quickly.

England batter Jacob Bethell did not hold back when asked about Australia’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2026. In a light-hearted but pointed remark, Bethell said it was “good to see” their Ashes rivals crash out in the group stage.

Australia were knocked out before the Super 8s after failing to build momentum in Group B. Speaking to BBC’s Test Match Special, Bethell said the defending heavyweights simply never got going in the tournament.

Jacob Bethell couldn't help a wry smile when asked about Australia exiting the T20 World Cup at the group stage. pic.twitter.com/a4gAPp3YQc— Test Match Special (@bbctms) February 20, 2026

“It was good to see. They just didn’t seem like they got firing in the tournament. And in those group stage matches if you don’t hit the ground running, you’re in danger of that happening. So yeah, it was a shame for them,” Bethell said.

Australia opened their campaign in style, brushing Ireland aside by 67 runs in Colombo on February 11. But the spark faded quickly. A 23-run defeat to Zimbabwe dented their rhythm, and Sri Lanka then sealed their fate with a dominant eight-wicket win.

Australia needed results elsewhere to fall in their favour. Instead, rain intervened in Zimbabwe’s clash against Ireland in Kandy on February 17, and the shared points officially shut the door on Australia’s Super 8 hopes.