Matt Short Details Preparation Plans Ahead of Next T20 World Cup

Australia is trying to finalize its batting order for the 2026 T20 World Cup, and Matt Short is seemingly in their plans to fill a spot in the middle order. Being a specialist opener, it is definitely not an easy task for Matt Short. He has made a name for himself by opening the innings for Australia after the departure of David Warner. However, the current state of things suggests that the Australian team management is looking to utilize him in the middle order, as Marsh and Head are already locked in for the opening position.  

It is a known fact that getting a chance in the Australian team is very difficult, as the competition within the squad is quite high. The rising Victoria batter understands this fact, which is why he is ready to compromise his natural batting position. He is looking forward to the upcoming T20I World Cup in which he could feature for Australia as a specialist middle order batter.

"Personally I think I am suited to the top of the order, but having conversations with selectors and coaching staff, I think, looking forward to that T20 World Cup, I know that our top four or five is going to be pretty locked in," said Matt Short.

He further said that Australia are using the India series as a preparation for the upcoming mega event. It has given them an opportunity to test players at different positions, so that the batting order can be finalized with greater certainty.

"If I was to make the XI in the World Cup, I think my best chances are in the middle or lower order. We are probably using this series to see guys in different positions and looking ahead to that World Cup.” said Matt Short.

Playing the T20 World Cup for Australia will be a massive achievement for Matt Short. He is therefore looking forward to the mega event with all possible considerations, in which he could be asked to bat in the middle or lower down the order.

"[To play at the World Cup] would be massive. I missed out on the one in the West Indies where I was a travelling reserve, but I love playing cricket for Australia no matter if it's in the World Cup or a series like this. I am happy taking what I am getting, whether that is in the top order or through the middle." said Matt Short.

The upcoming T20 World Cup is scheduled in India and Sri Lanka. Both of these countries are known for producing spin-friendly conditions, so countering that will be a big challenge for Matt Short. He understands this fact completely and is committed to working on his spin game to further enhance his batting for the mega event.

"There's always ways to improve. Looking at the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, it is probably my game against spin that probably needs a little bit of work.” said Matt Short.

Describing the quality of batting in the Australian T20I lineup, Matt Short highlighted several players who have good experience playing in Indian conditions. He is therefore confident that Australia will do well in the upcoming event, provided they handle spin effectively.

"Especially when you look at our squad and the power hitters we have got through the middle like Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis ... guys that have had that experience in India before and have that real power game against spin. It is obviously a challenge, and playing for Australia is not easy, so we will have to wait and see.” said Matt Short.

Australia is currently playing against India in a T20I series at home. The performances of Matt Short in the last few games have not been up to the mark, however, he is confident to turn things around in the upcoming matches by showcasing better game awareness.