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Australia T20I captain Mitchell Marsh has reportedly been ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup opener against Ireland, which is scheduled to be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, February 11. Steve Smith, who has been named in the squad, may get a chance to join the Sri Lanka squad.
Australia will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland today. They have already lost Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, while Tim David is also unavailable for their first game. After Ireland’s game, the Men in Yellow will have a day off before taking on Zimbabwe on Friday 13 February.
Mitchell Marsh ruled out of Australia’s 2026 T20 World Cup opener
According to FoxSports.com.au, Mitchell Marsh is dealing with a testicular injury. The report adds that Steve Smith is being rushed into the squad as cover. Smith was initially left out of the World Cup squad despite his recent impressive form, including in the Big Bash League.
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Smith will compete in the LIV Golf Pro-Am in Adelaide on Wednesday with fellow Australian golfer Cam Smith. However, with Marsh injured, the Australian Test star will now travel to Sri Lanka, where Australia will play their group stage match.
Scan confirms internal testicular bleeding – Cricket Australia Mitchell Marsh Ground
Mitchell Marsh will miss at least one game after suffering a testicle injury in training. He was hit in the groin and is currently dealing with pain and limited mobility.
Cricket Australia confirmed scans showed bleeding within the testicles. The board said Marsh needs rest and recovery and his return will be subject to medical advice.
“He needs some time to rest and recover. He is experiencing ongoing pain and discomfort which limits his activities,” Cricket Australia said.
“Scans confirmed intratesticular bleeding and he will require a period of rest and recovery. He will return to competition subject to symptom relief and medical advice.”
“Substitute Steve Smith will travel to Sri Lanka as cover to acclimatise and be ready if required.”
Travis Head leads the way in the absence of Mitchell Marsh
Australia won the toss and elected to bat first in their Group B match against Ireland. With Mitchell Marsh unavailable, Travis Hyde will lead the side.
The match marked Australia’s first World Cup appearance since 2011 without Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. The team is also missing Tim David, who is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained while playing for the Hobart Hurricanes of the Grand Bash League.
Wicket-keeper batsman Josh Inglis will open the innings along with Travis Head. Matt Renshaw and Cooper Connolly had middling chances. Nathan Ellis will lead the pace bowling attack while veteran leg-spinner Adam Zampa will play a vital role in Sri Lanka’s campaign.
