Australia’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have been dealt another blow, with senior fast bowler Josh Hazlewood set to miss the early stages of the tournament due to an ongoing Achilles injury. Cricket Australia confirmed that Hazlewood will remain in Sydney to continue his rehabilitation instead of travelling with the squad to Sri Lanka.
Hazlewood’s absence follows a frustrating run of injuries that have impacted his recent international schedule. The right-arm quick was initially
ruled out of the England series due to a hamstring strain before picking up an Achilles issue during his rehabilitation. Although the pacer had earlier expressed confidence about being fit in time for the World Cup, Australia’s selectors and medical staff have opted for a cautious approach. Selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed that no definite timeline has been set for Hazlewood’s arrival in Sri Lanka, prioritising long-term fitness over rushing him back into action.
In Hazlewood’s absence, Sean Abbott has been added to Australia’s squad as a travelling reserve to provide fast-bowling cover. Dodemaide explained that Abbott’s inclusion was a practical decision, given his experience. Abbott had remained with the group after the Pakistan tour, making him a logical option should injury concerns escalate further.
"We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka. With Nathan also completing his return to play we decided to bring Sean with us as fast bowling cover should anything come up at short notice. Sean is an accomplished and versatile international player who has experienced numerous World Cup campaigns. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour," Dodemaide said.
Pat Cummuns ruled out of T20 World Cup
Australia’s pace attack has already depleted ahead of the tournament. Pat Cummins has been ruled out after failing to recover fully from a back injury, while Mitchell Starc has retired from T20Is. Ben Dwarshuis was added to the final 15-member squad following Cummins’ withdrawal.
Furthermore, Nathan Ellis recently returned from a hamstring issue and missed Hobart Hurricanes’ BBL finals, while Tim David has not played since December after sustaining his second hamstring injury in eight months. Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell was rested from the Pakistan tour as part of the ongoing management of his previously broken ankle. Adam Zampa also faced a minor scare after experiencing groin tightness during the final T20I against Pakistan, though team management described it as precautionary.
Despite these challenges, Australia will proceed with its World Cup preparations, including a warm-up match against the Netherlands in Colombo, before opening its campaign against Ireland on February 11.
