Australia have named Josh Inglis as the only specialist wicketkeeper in their T20 World Cup 2026 squad, opting instead to pack the side with all-rounders and spin options for conditions in Sri Lanka and India. With that strategy, selectors are keeping contingency plans ready in case of short-term injuries during the tournament.

Chief selector George Bailey confirmed that Glenn Maxwell is one of the internal options to don the gloves if required. Bailey explained that Maxwell’s wicketkeeping background, particularly at junior level, makes him a viable emergency solution.

“I’ve seen him do it. He’s a natural; he did it when he was younger,” Bailey said, adding that modern tournament squads often have to manage minor injuries without making immediate replacements.

Maxwell has previously worked on his wicketkeeping during international training camps, most notably during the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, when he practiced behind the stumps after Matthew Wade tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of the abandoned England match. He has also kept wickets in junior cricket and once represented Australia as a wicketkeeper during the Hong Kong Super Sixes in 2009.

Bailey clarified that Maxwell would only be considered for short-term cover if Inglis were unavailable for a single match. In the event of a long-term injury, Australia would look to bring in a specialist replacement such as Alex Carey or Josh Philippe.

Australia, captained by Mitchell Marsh, will begin their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland on February 11, with their early matches scheduled in Sri Lanka before shifting base to India if they qualify for the Super Eight stage.