'Aura no longer there': 'Devastated' Australia under fire after disastrous T20 World Cup
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 22, 2026
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Australia's T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment as they were eliminated early for the first time since 2009, despite entering the tournament as contenders. Coach Andrew McDonald defended his squad but acknowledged the need for a rebuild ahead of the next World Cup co-hosted with New Zealand in 2028.
Key factors contributing to their struggles included the absence of star players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, who were seen as crucial for success. The team's reliance on out-of-form all-rounders such as Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly drew criticism from former players and selectors. Mark Waugh highlighted the poor selection decisions,
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026