Ricky Ponting questions Australia’s ‘aura’ after T20 World Cup exit, doubts Glenn Maxwell’s future

Australia’s disappointing campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup has drawn sharp criticism from former captain Ricky Ponting, who believes a combination of poor form and fitness issues derailed the team — and suggested that Glenn Maxwell may have played his final global tournament.

Australia crashed out of the competition with a group-stage match still to play against Oman national cricket team, following heavy defeats to Zimbabwe national cricket team and Sri Lanka national cricket team. The early exit marked a stark contrast to their dominant run in bilateral cricket throughout much of 2025.

Speaking to the ICC Review, Ponting described the campaign as “really poor,” pointing to key injuries that disrupted the squad’s balance. Fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were unavailable for the tournament in Sri Lanka, while Mitchell Starc had already retired from T20 internationals. The absences left Australia’s bowling attack short of experience and penetration.

In addition, Tim David was eased back into the side after a hamstring injury, having not played since Boxing Day before featuring against Zimbabwe. There were also mounting concerns over the form of Maxwell and emerging batter Cooper Connolly, while scrutiny has increased around all-rounder Cameron Green.

Ponting said the defeat to Zimbabwe would likely haunt the squad. “That’s going to be the game they look back on and think that’s our World Cup gone, there and then,” he remarked.

Beyond the results, Ponting questioned the team’s overall presence. “You look at that Australian team on paper, it just doesn’t look to have that sort of aura around it that a lot of other Australian teams have going into ICC events and World Cups,” he said, adding that major tournaments require senior players to step up in defining moments — something he felt Australia failed to do.

He also highlighted issues in the top order, particularly the use of Green at No. 3 and David at No. 4 in the later matches. Despite a strong start against Sri Lanka, Australia collapsed dramatically, losing six wickets for 20 runs and surrendering momentum.

Looking ahead to a new two-year cycle leading into 2028 — which includes cricket’s return at the Olympics and the next T20 World Cup to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand — Ponting stopped short of calling for wholesale changes. However, he was candid about Maxwell’s prospects.

“I don’t think he’ll be there,” Ponting said, suggesting the veteran all-rounder’s international career may be nearing its conclusion.

He also identified Marcus Stoinis as a potential question mark, noting his focus on franchise T20 leagues and limited involvement in domestic cricket beyond the Big Bash League. Meanwhile, Steve Smith remains keen to feature in an Olympic squad, though Ponting indicated that his place in the shortest format is far from certain.

Australia now faces a period of reflection and rebuilding as it seeks to rediscover the edge and authority that once made it a dominant force in global tournaments.