T20 World Cup 2026: Top 5 players returning after injury

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin in just over a week's time and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The marquee tournament will feature 20 teams battling it out for the biggest glory in the shortest format of cricket. While some teams will be aiming to lift the trophy for the first time, others will look to add a second title to their cabinet. India enter the competition as defending champions, having defeated South Africa in a thrilling final to win the 2024 edition.

One of

the most intriguing aspects of this World Cup is the return of several high-profile players who have recently recovered from injuries.

Here are the five players who are returning from injury ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026

5. Shamar Joseph (West Indies)

Shamar Joseph has emerged as a dependable fast bowler for the West Indies and plays a crucial role in their T20 setup. He was initially ruled out of the India tour and later missed the Bangladesh ODI series due to shoulder discomfort. Joseph recently made his return during the Afghanistan T20I series, although his performances were below his usual standards.

In 14 T20Is, he has taken 16 wickets at an average of 28.43 with an economy rate of 9.47. With the World Cup around the corner, Joseph will be eager to regain his rhythm and make an impact on the big stage.

4. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is renowned for his ability to dominate matches, especially in major tournaments. He sustained an injury during a practice session and was sidelined for a period, but recently returned to action in the Big Bash League for the Melbourne Stars. Although his performances were not at their best, Maxwell remains a vital cog in Australia’s white-ball setup.

In 126 encounters, he has amassed 2,835 runs and claimed 49 wickets which shows his immense value as a match-winner.

3. Tilak Varma (India)

India’s middle-order batter Tilak Varma is also set to return after recovering from testicular surgery, which forced him to miss the New Zealand T20I series. Varma has been a consistent performer for the Men in Blue and played a crucial knock in the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan to guide India to victory.

In 40 appearances in the format for the Men in Blue, the Hyderabad cricketer has scored 1,183 runs, including two centuries and six fifties, at an impressive average of 49.29. His return will definitely strengthen India’s batting depth.

2. Josh Hazlewood (Australia)

Josh Hazlewood will make his comeback after recovering from an Achilles issue that ruled him out of The Ashes and the Big Bash League. A key figure across formats for Australia, Hazlewood’s accuracy and control make him a lethal weapon in T20 cricket.

In 60 matches played so far, the tall pacer with loads of experience has taken 79 wickets at an average of 21.26 with an economy rate of 7.47, making him a vital addition to Australia’s bowling attack.

1. Jofra Archer (England)

England pacer Jofra Archer is set to feature in a T20 World Cup after overcoming multiple injury setbacks. He missed two Ashes Tests and had only recently returned to the longest format after four years due to elbow and back issues. Currently recovering from a left-side strain, Archer is expected to thrive in the subcontinent conditions with his express pace. 

In 35 T20Is, Archer has picked up 44 wickets at an average of 23.34 and an economy rate of 7.98.