Australia’s T20 World Cup Disaster
Australia’s shocking exit from the 2026 T20 World Cup has fans reeling. Defeats against Zimbabwe and co-hosts Sri Lanka knocked them out early—only the second group-stage exit since 2009. An inexperienced bowling attack struggled throughout, but eyebrows were really raised over Steve Smith’s limited role.
The Mystery of Steve Smith’s “Cover” Role
Smith joined the squad as injury cover for captain Mitchell Marsh, who missed the first two games with a groin injury. Selector Tony Dodemaide explained Smith was strictly backup for the opening batting spot: “He was only available for Game 3, where our best pairing—Marsh and Travis Head—performed well.” Dodemaide added Smith would only play if “moving parts” forced changes.
Selection Backlash Explodes
The early exit sparked fury.
