T20 World Cup 2026: ‘There are no young pacers who can bowl 140+ in Australia?’ – Irfan Pathan analyzes Australia’s poor performance against Sri Lanka

On Monday, February 16, Australia got off to a thrilling start at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo as openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh scored a 104-run stand inside nine overs. However, a phenomenal performance from the Sri Lankan spinners derailed the Australian innings. The 2021 T20 World Cup champions were eventually bowled out for 181.

Sri Lanka raced to the target in just 18 overs, with eight wickets in the bank. Pathum Nissanka played with the bat as he scored an unbeaten century. Kusal Mendis also scored a gritty fifty to help Sri Lanka qualify for the Super-Eights.

However, Australia will have to hope that Ireland will beat Zimbabwe on Tuesday. If the African nation gains the upper hand over Ireland, Australia will be eliminated.

Pathan opined that Australia are missing the services of Josh Hazlewood as the veteran pacer was ruled out of the tournament due to injury. The former India all-rounder also asked whether there are any bowlers in Australia who can bowl at speeds above 140 kmph.

“Australia clearly missed Josh Hazlewood. And aren’t there any young fast players in Australia who can bowl 140+?” Pathan asked on ‘X’.

Australia’s departure can be confirmed tomorrow at 6pm: Aakash Chopra

An injury ruled out not only Hazlewood, but also his compatriot Pat Cummins. While Aakash Chopra acknowledged that Australia’s bowling attack is weak, he questioned the batting depth and highlighted the batters’ debacles against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.

“Yes, it’s the weakest Australian bowling attack in a World Cup… but what about the batting depth? Couldn’t chase Zim. Scored six runs in the last two overs tonight. Australia’s exit could be confirmed tomorrow at 6pm. They need the world famous ‘Kudrat Ka Nizaam’ (law of nature) to stay alive,” Chopra wrote on X.

Sri Lanka consolidated its position at the top of the table in Group B with victory over Australia. They have now recorded three wins from as many matches in the tournament.

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