
The 2021 champions Australia will begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland in a Group B encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, February 11. With Australia entering as one of the tournament favourites and Ireland aiming to spring an early surprise, the fixture promises an intriguing contest.
Australia arrive with a settled batting core but their bowling department has been suffering injuries, while Ireland will rely on experience, all-round depth, and adaptability to challenge the 2021 champions. Colombo’s surface is expected to assist both seam early and spin as the innings progresses, placing emphasis on balance and role clarity.
With group-stage points crucial in a competitive Group B, both teams will be keen to start strongly and establish momentum early in the tournament.
Here are the Predicted Playing XI of AUS vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026 Group B Match:
Predicted Australia Playing XI
Top Order: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green
Australia are expected to open with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, a combination that provides aggression and leadership at the top. Cameron Green at No.3 offers flexibility, capable of stabilising or accelerating depending on match situations.
Middle Order: Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly, Marcus Stoinis
Josh Inglis provides stability and wicketkeeping duties, while Cooper Connolly adds left-handed balance. Marcus Stoinis strengthens the middle order with his power-hitting and medium-pace options.
Lower Order: Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw
Glenn Maxwell remains Australia’s most dangerous middle-overs batter, while Matt Renshaw adds depth and composure lower down the order.
Bowlers: Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa
Bartlett and Ellis provide pace and variation, while Adam Zampa’s leg-spin remains a key wicket-taking weapon in the middle overs.
Also check: Predicted India Playing XI, India vs Namibia – T20 World Cup 2026 Match 18
Australia T20 World Cup 2026 squad:
Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
Predicted Ireland Playing XI
Top Order: Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker (wk)
Paul Stirling leads from the front with experience and intent, supported by Ross Adair’s aggression. Lorcan Tucker provides stability and handles wicketkeeping responsibilities.
Middle Order: Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz
Harry Tector anchors the innings, while Curtis Campher adds all-round value. Ben Calitz offers adaptability against both pace and spin.
Lower Order: George Dockrell, Gareth Delany
Dockrell and Delany provide spin options and depth with the bat, particularly useful on slowing surfaces.
Bowlers: Mark Adair, Josh Little, Matthew Humphreys
Mark Adair leads the pace attack, with Josh Little offering left-arm variation. Matthew Humphreys’ spin could be vital in Colombo conditions.
Ireland T20 World Cup 2026 squad:
Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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