Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign has suffered another significant blow with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood officially ruled out of the 2026 tournament, joining fellow pace spearhead Pat Cummins on the sidelines.
According to International Cricket Council information today, hazlewood’s withdrawal comes as he has been unable to regain full fitness following a series of ailments. The pacer initially sustained a hamstring injury during Australia”s domestic first-class competition and has more recently contended with Achilles issues during his recovery attempts.
Australian selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed the decision, stating that hopes for Hazlewood”s availability later in the tournament had faded. ‘We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super Eights stage, but the latest indications (are that) he is still some time away and accelerating his program will carry too much risk,” Dodemaide said.
The selection committee has opted not to name an immediate replacement for the fast bowler. ‘We will not be naming a replacement player immediately. We feel we are well covered for the initial games so will make any later decisions based on priority need at the time,’ Dodemaide added.
The absence of another key bowler may intensify speculation around a late call-up for veteran batsman Steve Smith, who displayed strong form in the recent Big Bash League. Fast bowler Sean Abbott, who travelled with the squad from their recent 3-0 series loss in Pakistan, is also a prominent replacement option.
In more positive news for the squad, Nathan Ellis and Tim David are both expected to be available for the group stage after dealing with hamstring problems. Spinner Adam Zampa has also been cleared of groin tightness and is set to play in the opening fixture.
Australia’s preparations were slightly hampered after their warm-up fixture against the Netherlands was abandoned on Thursday. The team, captained by Mitchell Marsh, now has a six-day window to prepare for their first group match against Ireland in Colombo next week.