Australia have confirmed that Mitchell Marsh will remain captain for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India, ending speculation over Pat Cummins’ return to the T20I role. Marsh’s leadership was reasserted after the fifth T20I against India in Brisbane was wiped out, handing India a 2-1 win.
This is Australia’s fourth defeat in the T20I series since 2022, three of which have come against India. Despite the results, Marsh remained optimistic about the team’s progress and balance ahead of a crucial World Cup year.
“I can’t remember the last time we had so many rain delays,” Marsh said after the abandoned match. “India won the games when it mattered, congratulations to them. There are a lot of lessons and positives that we can move on from. The adaptability and flexibility in our group and the squad we are trying to build in a World Cup year has been great.”
Cummins, meanwhile, will continue as Australia’s Test and ODI captain but will miss the first Ashes Test due to a back injury. It is expected that he will return for the second match after his rehabilitation. His focus on red-ball cricket has enabled Marsh to take over the white-ball duties in the shortest format.
Marsh has captained Australia for several recent series, including the 2024 T20 World Cup and bilateral matches against the West Indies and India. His consistent leadership and strong bond with the group have made him the clear choice for 2026.
Speaking about his long-term role, Marsh hinted with a smile: “Our squad, at full strength, is a pretty stable team. The Big Bash is there for the boys to enjoy and hopefully the Scorchers win. Good question (who will captain in the T20 World Cup – him or Pat). I think I will be there.”
Australia’s management appears to share his confidence, hoping stability in the T20 leadership will help the team regain momentum ahead of next year’s World Cup in India.
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