Overview:
Australia will wrap up their T20 World Cup campaign on Friday as they take on Oman at the Pallekele International Stadium in Sri Lanka.
Glenn McGrath has questioned Australia’s decision to pick all-rounder Cameron Green ahead of Steve Smith after their early exit from the T20 World Cup 2026. Green, who was chosen for his ability to contribute both with bat and ball, failed to make an impact, scoring just 24 runs in three games. His ordinary performance have raised doubts about his place in the squad.
“If he’s not bowling, what the selectors are essentially saying is that he’s a better option than Steve Smith. I just don’t understand how he can justify his place in the team,” McGrath was quoted as saying by the Sunday Morning Herald.
Australia arrived at the T20 World Cup 2026 as strong contenders but struggled with injuries and poor form, resulting in an early exit. After beating Ireland in their opening game, the 2021 champions fell short against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.
Reflecting on Australia’s early exit, McGrath stated that the the aura of the Australian team has gone, and that the outcome is far from shocking.
“From the beginning of this World Cup, we expressed our concerns about Australia. Now, it’s clear that the once-feared reputation of the Australian team is no longer there when other sides face them. Sadly, this outcome isn’t all that surprising,” he added.
Jason Gillespie also raised concerns over the inclusion of Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly in the squad following their underwhelming performances in the World Cup.
“Cooper Connolly, and to a lesser degree Cameron Green, are simply not justifying the trust that has been placed in them,” he said.
Australia will wrap up their T20 World Cup campaign on Friday as they take on Oman at the Pallekele International Stadium in Sri Lanka.