Pretty optimistic about Australia's chances: Hussey

Australia have last won a T20 series back in February 2020 and suffered five series defeats to England, India, New Zealand, West Indies and Bangladesh. It is the only format in which Australia haven't been able to stamp their authority which also means they are one of the least favourite sides coming into the global event. However, former Australian batter Michael Hussey is pretty optimistic about Australia's prospects. 

"I'm actually pretty optimistic about Australia's chances. I think we've got a really good team, a dangerous team. If they can get their confidence up, adapt well to the conditions, then I think it's a pretty darn good team. Hopefully, they can get on a roll," Hussey told foxsports.com.au.

Glenn Maxwell showed great form for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently-concluded IPL in the UAE and amassed 513 runs, including six half-centuries, in 15 matches at an average of 42.75 and a strike rate of 144.10. Hussey was all praise for the all-rounder.

"He's been great to watch. He's been on fire. He's been confident and the good thing is it's in those conditions in the UAE (he has performed). So hopefully he can carry his IPL form into the World cup because he's going to be a critical member of the team.

"It's a tough role to play there in the middle order in T20 cricket so if you've got someone who's in top form and on top of their game then we've seen he can be a match-winner on his own," Hussey said.

Australia will begin their campaign in the Super 12 against South Africa on October 23 in Abu Dhabi.