Aakash Chopra picks Australia’s playing XI for the T20 World Cup 2026

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With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 set to be played in India and Sri Lanka, discussions around ideal combinations have already begun. Australia, known for their aggressive brand of cricket and depth across departments, are expected to field a powerful and flexible XI suited to subcontinental conditions. Former India cricketer and analyst Aakash Chopra has weighed in with his preferred Australia playing XI, outlining a team built around power, all-round depth, and tactical balance.

Chopra’s selection reflects modern T20 thinking — long batting depth, multiple bowling options, and adaptability based on pitch conditions. His XI blends established stars with players who can influence games in short bursts, a crucial factor in World Cup cricket.

At the top of the order, Chopra backed Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head as openers. Marsh’s ability to muscle bowlers from ball one and Head’s fearless strokeplay make them a destructive pairing, capable of setting the tone inside the powerplay. Their experience in high-pressure tournaments further strengthens Australia’s starts.

Behind them, Josh Inglis slotted in at number three. Chopra valued Inglis for his versatility — he can anchor if early wickets fall or accelerate when the platform is set. His wicketkeeping skills also add balance to the XI without compromising batting depth.

The middle order revolves around all-round strength. Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis provide power, seam-bowling options, and flexibility depending on match situations. Chopra sees Green as a key player in Asian conditions due to his bounce, reach, and ability to clear the ropes even on slower pitches.

Following them is the ever-dangerous Glenn Maxwell, a player Chopra considers indispensable in T20 cricket. Maxwell’s unorthodox batting, combined with his off-spin, offers Australia a match-winner who can single-handedly change games in the middle overs.

Finishing duties are handed to Tim David, whose role is clear — maximise runs at the death. Chopra’s XI ensures that Australia bat deep, with genuine firepower extending well beyond the top six.

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In the bowling department, Chopra opted for leadership and experience through Pat Cummins, who also captains the side in crunch moments. Cummins’ calm presence and ability to bowl at any stage of the innings make him a vital cog.

He pairs Cummins with Josh Hazlewood, whose accuracy and hard lengths can be extremely effective even on flatter surfaces. For additional variety, Chopra leaves room for either Nathan Ellis or Matthew Kuhnemann, depending on conditions. This choice highlights tactical adaptability — extra pace on quicker tracks or an additional spinner on turning wickets.

Spin responsibilities primarily rest with Adam Zampa, Australia’s premier T20 spinner. Chopra values Zampa’s wicket-taking ability in the middle overs, especially on Indian and Sri Lankan pitches where quality spin often decides matches.

While fitness and execution will ultimately determine Australia’s fate, Chopra’s chosen XI underlines why they remain one of the most dangerous teams heading into the tournament.

Aakash Chopra’s Australia XI for T20 World Cup 2026:

Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis/Matthew Kuhnemann, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa.

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