New Delhi: Australia’s shock exit in the group stages of the 2026 T20 World Cup has prompted sharp criticism from former great Glenn McGrath, who has openly questioned the selectors’ decision to favor Cameron Green over veteran Steve Smith.
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Green, who was drafted for his all-around ability, has had a miserable season with the bat, scoring just 24 runs in three games. He scored 21 points in the opener but had a disappointing zero and three points in the team’s most important game. What’s more, he bowled just seven overs in the entire tournament, raising serious doubts about his role and value in the XI.
“If he doesn’t bowl, then the selectors will say he’s a better player than Steve Smith. If he doesn’t bowl, I don’t see how he can justify his place in the team,” McGrath told the Sunday Morning Herald.
Australia entered the tournament as favorites but never lived up to expectations. After an opening win over Ireland, they lost to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, eventually exiting the 2026 T20 World Cup in disgrace.
McGrath said the results reflected a further decline in Australia’s dominance. “We said at the start of the World Cup that we were worried about the Australian team. All of a sudden, when other teams came into the tournament, the aura of the Australian team was gone. Unfortunately, it’s not surprising,” he said.
Former Pacer Jason Gillespie also criticized the continued support for underperforming youngsters like Cooper Connolly.
“Cooper Connolly and I think to a lesser extent Cameron Green, they just didn’t repay the absolute trust that was given,” Gillespie said.
Australia will now hope to salvage some pride in their final match against Oman at the Palleke International Stadium on Friday.
