In what could be a big blow to Australia cricket team, captain Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the tournament opener against Sri Lanka on February 11. The update comes under a hour before the Men in Yellow’s tournament opener. Travis Head is all set to captain the Australian side in their contest against IRE in the absence of Marsh. Australia, who are already heading into the tournament without the services of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, have been dealt with an additional blow.
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No Marsh for Australia in T20 World Cup opener
As per Cricket Australia’s statement, Marsh has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 game against Sri Lanka after suffering a serious blow to his groin area before the game. The report states that Steve Smith, the former captain for Australia, will link up with the side in Sri Lanka. The statement notes that Marsh will need more time to recover from his injury, which means Head will lead the side in his absence.
“Marsh was hit in groin area while receiving sidearm throw downs from one of Australia’s assistant coaches during Australia’s training session on Sunday, immediately exiting the net for treatment,” the statement read.
Cricket Australia said in a statement that Marsh is confirmed to have internal testicular bleeding and that he will require a period of rest and rehabilitation. Smith has been named as his cover and will join the side in Sri Lanka soon.
“He is experiencing ongoing pain and discomfort which is restricting his movement. Scans have confirmed internal testicular bleeding and he will require a period of rest and rehabilitation. His return to play will be guided by symptom resolution and medical advice,” the statement stated.
Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Mitch Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, Steve Smith.
Travelling reserve: Sean Abbott
