Australia’s campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026 has ended abruptly, knocked out in the group stage after humiliating defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka. The once-dominant team failed to advance, prompting sharp criticism from cricket legends. Glenn McGrath, the former Australian pace spearhead, expressed deep disappointment, declaring that the team’s intimidating aura has vanished.
Speaking to the Morning Herald, McGrath reflected on early warning signs. ‘We raised concerns right at the start of this World Cup. The results aren’t surprising. Australia’s dominance is over,’ he stated bluntly. The veteran’s comments underscore a stark decline for a nation synonymous with cricket supremacy.
McGrath didn’t hold back on selection blunders either. He targeted the inclusion of Cameron Green, chosen over Steve Smith as an all-rounder. ‘If he’s not bowling, what’s he doing in the side?’ McGrath questioned. Green’s tournament was dismal: just 24 runs in three matches, including a duck, and a mere seven balls bowled. His failure to contribute with bat or ball fueled debates over selector misjudgments.
Jason Gillespie, McGrath’s longtime pace partner, echoed these sentiments. Both questioned the faith placed in Green and Cooper Connolly. ‘The selectors backed them heavily, but they didn’t deliver,’ Gillespie noted. Australia’s early exit raises serious questions about team strategy ahead of future tournaments.
As fans digest this shock, the cricket world ponders what went wrong for the Baggy Greens. Rebuilding will be key to reclaiming their lost edge.