T20 World Cup 2026: T20I practice matches are a preparation for the big clash next year.
Here are five key talking points from the recent 5-0 series win between Australia and West Indies that emerged ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.
Australia finished their T20I series in the West Indies on Monday with another emphatic win, allowing both teams to look ahead to next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India with an optimistic outlook.
With just over six months to go for the start of the next edition of the T20 World Cup in India in 2026, teams are busy finalising their preparations for the 20-over extravaganza.
Even though the result of the series was one-sided, Australia and West Indies showed several positive signs.
Let us look at five key talking points that emerged from Australia’s series win over the West Indies and what it could mean for the two teams heading into next year’s T20 World Cup.
Australia’s bench strength is impressive ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup
The depth in fast bowling has given Australia a selection headache
While Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood remain Australia’s leading pace trio in T20Is, the recent series against the West Indies has highlighted the abundance of talent.
Left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis starred with three wickets in the final match of the series to top the team’s total with eight wickets.
He has been well supported by fellow pacers Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie and Xavier Bartlett, all of whom have put up solid performances in all five matches.
This depth in high-quality fast bowling means Australia have a number of reliable options in the event of injury or rotation during the World Cup—a major problem ahead of the tournament.
Adam Zampa’s consistency the cornerstone for Australia
In a format known for its unpredictability, Adam Zampa continues to shine with his unwavering consistency.
Playing his 100th T20I match in the final match in St Kitts, Zampa bowled another impressive spell and returned figures of 1 for 20 in three overs.
Unlike many leg-spinners whose impact can fluctuate, Zampa’s performance rarely wavers—making him an indispensable part of Australia’s World Cup strategy, especially when spin is expected to change the game on Indian pitches.
Emerging batsmen step up for Australia
With experienced players like Glenn Maxwell in the twilight of his career, Australia have been looking for new match-winners with the bat.
The search may be over.
Cameron Green was the standout performer with 205 runs in the series, while Tim David (132) and Mitch Owen (125) also showcased their ability in the middle order.
These performances not only reflect the depth of the squad, but also that Australia now have a new generation of power-hitters ready to carry the torch forward.
West Indies display explosive batting
Despite the series loss, the strength of West Indies’ batting is undeniable. Captain Shai Hope, Sherfane Rutherford, Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer showed glimpses of their ability to dominate when conditions are favourable.
However, the team could benefit from the addition of an anchor-style batsman in the top six for balance.
Hope’s leadership and consistent batting will be crucial if West Indies are to challenge for the title in 2026. His role in an otherwise explosive lineup cannot be underestimated.
Spin bowling key to West Indies’ World Cup win in India
Veteran pacer Jason Holder has been consistently reliable with the new ball, but spin bowling in Indian conditions will be the key if West Indies are to replicate their 2012 and 2016 T20 World Cup successes.
Akeel Hossain took four wickets in the series but struggled with his economy rate and needs to find his rhythm.
Meanwhile, Gudakesh Moti, who has played just three matches, has the potential to make a significant impact.
If West Indies can improve their spin attack, they could become genuine contenders once again.
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