How the mighty fall!! Australia eliminated at group stage!

For decades, Australia have ruled world cricket with an undisputed reign across formats, setting standards for consistency, depth and big-match temperament. World Cups were their natural habitat, and early exits a rarity. That aura shattered at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 , where Australia suffered a stunning group-stage elimination.

Australia’s last chance of redemption was washed away by rain when the Ireland–Zimbabwe fixture was abandoned, sending Zimbabwe into the Super-8 and ending Australia’s campaign. Questions will be asked about squad rotation and the absence or limited use of some top players, but such explanations offer little comfort. Champions are expected to adapt, and Australia cannot hide behind circumstances. The moment is reminiscent of 2007 Cricket World Cup , when India’s group-stage exit triggered soul-searching and long-term change.

While Australia fell, others moved forward with authority. India cruised into the Super-8 unbeaten, topping their group with emphatic wins, including a dominant victory over Pakistan . Led by Suryakumar Yadav , India combined youthful flair with seasoned control and will wrap up the league stage against Netherlands .

Zimbabwe’s progress has been one of the tournament’s standout stories. Their earlier upset win over Australia laid the foundation, and the rain-hit result against Ireland proved decisive. Sri Lanka topped the group to qualify alongside Zimbabwe, sending Australia and Ireland packing.

Elsewhere today, New Zealand sealed their Super-8 place with a comfortable eight-wicket win over Canada , brushing aside a spirited batting effort with a composed chase. In another match, Nepal ended their campaign on a high, registering a morale-boosting win over Scotland , a result that underlined the growing competitiveness of emerging sides.

As the tournament heads into the Super-8s, the message is unmistakable: reputation offers no protection. The mighty have fallen, new narratives have emerged, and the World Cup has once again proven that every game must be earned.