Ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, former cricketer Ricky Ponting feels that Australia has a chance of clinching the title like anybody else.
He also feels that, considering the conditions and talent, Team India is the favourite in the marquee event.
“If you look at the squad, I think they (Australia) have as good a chance as anybody,” he said.
“India probably start as the clear favourites, I think, in this event due to conditions, the talent and the group of players that they have put together. They will be hard to beat, but I really do think we will see Australia there come semi-final time,” added the former cricketer.
Further speaking, he also pointed out the concern and also spoke about the flexibility in the Australian squad.
“A few guys are injured at the moment or coming back from injury. That is probably the biggest concern that they have got right now. The one thing they have got in that squad is really good flexibility with so many all-rounders,” said Ponting.
He also feels that the Australian think tank will pick Cooper Connolly to form a spin attack with Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa in the mega tournament.
“ou look at (Marcus) Stoinis, (Glenn) Maxwell, Cameron Green, there is so many. Cooper Connolly. Young guy that has just won the MVP again in the BBL (Big Bash League) for the second year in row. If it looks like it will turn, I think Australia will go with Connolly to back up Maxwell and (Adam) Zampa. So, they have got three spin bowling options there,” he said.
The Aussies will begin their campaign by playing a clash against Ireland on February 11 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. They will then lock horns against Zimbabwe on February 13 at the same venue.
Their third clash of the group stage will be against Sri Lanka on February 16 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Balagolla. The side will conclude its group stage matches by playing a clash against Oman on February 20 at the same venue.
Australia`s T20 World Cup 2026 squad
Mitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, Sean Abbott (travelling reserve).
(With ANI Inputs)
