Allrounder Marcus Stoinis has been recalled to Australia’s 14-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, boosting his chances of making the cut for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Australia squad for New Zealand T20Is
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
Stoinis’ road back
The 36-year-old last played for Australia in November 2024 and retired from ODIs earlier this year. Despite being without a central or state contract, Stoinis has stayed active on the T20 circuit, playing pivotal roles for Punjab Kings in the IPL and Trent Rockets in The Hundred, with both franchises reaching their respective finals.
His return strengthens competition for the middle-order allrounder role, where Cameron Green, Tim David, and Mitch Owen are also in contention. Green will miss the New Zealand series to focus on Sheffield Shield cricket ahead of the Ashes.
Injury updates and changes
- Mitch Owen returns after a concussion that sidelined him during the South Africa tour.
- Matthew Short has recovered from a side strain sustained in the Caribbean in July.
- Alex Carey and Aaron Hardie, who were stand-ins against South Africa, drop out.
- Nathan Ellis is unavailable due to paternity leave.
Australia will also be without Mitchell Starc, who has retired from T20 internationals, and Pat Cummins, still recovering from a back injury.
Fixtures
The three T20Is against New Zealand will be played in Mount Maunganui on October 1, 3, and 4.
Stoinis’ recall gives Australia more options in the lead-up to next year’s World Cup, where balance and experience in the middle order will be crucial.
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