Matthew Kuhnemann is on the brink of a surprise T20 World Cup debut, emerging as the most eyebrow-raising selection in Australia’s squad for the global showpiece to be played in India and Sri Lanka in February.
As widely anticipated, Australia have backed their proven stars, naming pace aces Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, along with explosive batter Tim David, despite all three carrying recent injury concerns.
However, there was no room for Mitch Owen, last summer’s BBL final hero, fit-again quick Sean Abbott, or reserve wicketkeeper Josh Philippe. Philippe’s omission leaves Josh Inglis as the squad’s sole specialist wicketkeeper.
Fast bowler Xavier Bartlett, versatile Matt Short, and allrounder Cooper Connolly are also in line to experience World Cup cricket for the first time when Australia open their campaign against Ireland in Colombo on February 11.
Yet it is Kuhnemann who stands out as the biggest surprise in the 15-man squad.
The left-arm spinner has played just four T20 internationals since making his debut on Australia’s 2025 winter tour of the West Indies and is still searching for his first wicket, with best figures of 0 for 14. Despite that modest T20 record, selectors appear confident his bowling style will suit the turning pitches of the subcontinent.
Kuhnemann impressed earlier in 2025 during Australia’s Test tour of Sri Lanka, where he was among their standout performers with the red ball, a showing that seems to have strengthened his case.
Experienced campaigner Adam Zampa is the other frontline spinner named, ensuring Australia retain variety and control in spin-friendly conditions.
“The T20 side has enjoyed a long run of recent success, which allowed the panel to select a balanced squad capable of handling the different conditions Sri Lanka and India may present,” chief selector George Bailey said.
Head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed earlier this week that Australia remain hopeful Cummins (back), Hazlewood (Achilles and hamstring) and David (hamstring) will be fully fit in time to feature in the tournament.