The opening phase of T20 World Cup 2026 was a rollercoaster, spotlighting triumphs from Zimbabwe, Italy, USA, while unmasking frailties in elite squads. Australia bowed out in groups despite 2021 glory, joining Pakistan, Ireland, and a wobbly England in the hall of shame.
Australia’s pre-event favoritism under Marsh vanished amid disasters. Zimbabwe drubbed them, Sri Lanka chased 182 with 8 wickets spare—Hazlewood and Cummins’ absence stung deep. Bowlers were toothless, batsmen ineffective.
Elite sluggers Tim David, Cameron Green, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis flattered to deceive, their poor returns sealing a forgettable run.
Pakistan’s narrow escape against Netherlands masked deeper issues; India’s game laid bare batting woes. Beyond Farhan, Babar Azam led a string of failures.
Ireland under Sterling grabbed a solitary Oman win but batting woes persisted across matches.
Super 8-bound England barely held off Nepal and labored against West Indies. Buttler, Brook, Salt, Archer all fizzled, hinting at vulnerabilities. As the tournament heats up, these exposed teams face redemption or ruin.