Australia opens T20 World Cup vs. Ireland, missing key bowlers but favoring strong batting and spin strategy.

Australia opens the 2026 T20 World Cup against Ireland in Colombo, favored despite missing key pace bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood’s retirement. Nathan Ellis may lead a revised bowling attack hampered by a hamstring injury, while Adam Zampa returns from a groin issue to anchor the spin-heavy strategy suited to subcontinent conditions. Australia’s strong batting and all-round depth remain intact as they aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2022. The tournament, hosted in Sri Lanka and India, features all group matches in Sri Lanka, with the final set for March 9 in Ahmedabad.