Australia are set to back experience and proven match-winners as Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are all expected to be named in the country's provisional squad for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup, despite fitness concerns hovering over each of them.
Australia coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Cummins will be included in the initial 15-man squad ahead of the ICC deadline on January 2, even as the fast bowler remains touch and go due to a back injury.
Cummins Awaiting Key Scan
Cummins has featured in just one international match since suffering a lumbar stress injury in July. He made a brief return during the Adelaide Test against England, delivering an impressive spell, but was promptly withdrawn from the remainder of the series as selectors opted against taking
further risks.
"Pat will have a scan in another four weeks," McDonald said. "That will give us information on where he's at for the World Cup. He'll be named in the squad of 15, and then we'll assess his availability closer to the tournament. "
The Australia captain has not played a T20I since the previous World Cup in the Caribbean, making his fitness a crucial talking point as the tournament approaches.
Hazlewood on Track After Missing Ashes
Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who missed the entire Ashes series due to hamstring and Achilles issues, is expected to be fit in time. Hazlewood had impressed earlier in the season during the T20I series against India and has since returned to bowling.
"Josh is returning to bowl," McDonald said. "He looks as though he should be right in terms of possible timeframes. "
Tim David Injury Clouds BBL, Not World Cup
Middle-order power-hitter Tim David is the other concern after being ruled out of the remainder of the Big Bash League following a grade two right hamstring strain sustained on Boxing Day while playing for the Hobart Hurricanes.
Despite the setback, the recovery window works in Australia's favour. "The timeframe will be kind on Tim as well," McDonald said. "He should be available no matter what that injury is. "
World Cup Timeline Works in Australia's Favour
Australia's campaign begins on February 11, with group-stage matches against Ireland and Zimbabwe, before a tougher clash against Sri Lanka on February 16. The schedule allows additional recovery time for David if needed.
Australia will also play three T20Is in Pakistan in late January as part of their World Cup preparations, though players involved are likely to miss some or all of the BBL finals.
