‘How he justifies a spot?’: McGrath questions Green over Smith after T20 WC disaster

Times of India

Feb 18, 2026

‘How he justifies a spot?’: McGrath questions Green over Smith after T20 WC disaster

Image Source : Asian Chronicle

NEW DELHI: Australia’s disastrous group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered sharp criticism from former great Glenn McGrath, who openly questioned the selectors’ decision to back Cameron Green over veteran batter Steve Smith.

Green, picked for his all-round abilities, endured a miserable campaign with the bat, scoring just 24 runs in three matches. His returns included 21 in the opener but disappointing scores of zero and three in the team’s biggest games. More significantly, he bowled only seven deliveries across the tournament, raising serious doubts about his role and value in the XI.

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“If he’s not bowling, then what the selectors are saying is that he’s a better player than Steve Smith. If he’s not bowling, I just can’t see how he justifies a spot in that side,” McGrath told the Sunday Morning Herald.

Australia entered the tournament among the favourites but never lived up to expectations. After opening with a win over Ireland, they slumped to consecutive defeats against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, ultimately crashing out of the T20 World Cup 2026 in humiliating fashion.

McGrath said the result reflected a deeper decline in Australia’s dominance. “We said at the start of this World Cup that we were concerned about Australia. All of a sudden, the aura of that Australian team is no longer there when other teams play it. Unfortunately, it's not surprising,” he said.

Former pacer Jason Gillespie also criticised the continued backing of underperforming youngsters, including Cooper Connolly.

“Cooper Connolly, and I think to a lesser extent Cameron Green, they’re just not repaying the absolute faith that has been given,” Gillespie said.

Australia will now look to salvage some pride when they face Oman in their final fixture at the Pallekele International Stadium on Friday.

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‘How he justifies a spot?’: McGrath questions Green over Smith after T20 WC disaster

Times of India

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