Australia's Maxwell, Stoinis, Smith miss T20I squad for Bangladesh series 2026

Australia's selectors reshuffle the T20I squad for Bangladesh, omitting Maxwell, Stoinis, Smith, Cummins, and Hazlewood ahead of key series.

Squad changes for Bangladesh T20Is Australia’s 16-man squad for the three T20Is against Bangladesh omits Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Steven Smith, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood. Cummins and Hazlewood are rested to prepare for 20 Tests starting in August 2026. The series is scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21. ## Coach addresses omission reasons The chair of selectors explained that none of the omitted players were technically dropped but admitted the team’s poor World Cup performance signaled a need for fresh faces. Bailey noted the squad refresh aims to develop new talent ahead of the 2028 home T20 World Cup and the LA Olympics in two years. He stressed the expectation remains to win whenever a team is selected. ## Maxwell and Stoinis still in contention Glenn Maxwell, now 37, has scored just one half-century in his last 20 T20 innings, including the recent World Cup campaign. Despite his ODI retirement, he remains open to playing 50-over domestic cricket for Victoria this summer. Marcus Stoinis, also 37, has been a consistent performer for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026 and remains in high demand in franchise leagues. ## Smith’s role and recent form Steven Smith turns 37 in June and has expressed interest in playing for Australia at the LA Olympics. His omission from the initial World Cup squad drew criticism after a strong BBL season, with selectors clarifying he is viewed solely as a T20 opener behind Marsh and Head. Smith finished the PSL with 380 runs at 34.54 and a strike rate of 161.7, including a 106 from 50 balls against Hyderabad Kingsmen. ## New faces earn opportunities Aaron Hardie returns to the T20I squad after a standout PSL campaign, where he claimed 4 for 27 and scored 56 not out in the final, earning Player of the Final honors. Joel Davies also gains his first international series call-up after an impressive BBL season with Sydney Sixers. Bailey highlighted the depth of talent emerging in New South Wales and domestic T20 cricket. ## Future outlook for omitted players Bailey emphasized that the omissions do not signal the end of the road for Maxwell, Stoinis, or Smith. The selectors aim to use this period to introduce new players across various roles in the T20 setup. The coach acknowledged the importance of maintaining high standards while developing the next generation.