Australia have suffered another setback ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, with experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood likely to miss the opening phase of the tournament due to injury concerns. The development comes shortly after captain Pat Cummins was ruled out, adding to Australia’s growing list of fitness challenges before the global event.
Josh Hazlewood is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Sydney after sustaining an Achilles injury. While he had initially hoped to be fully fit for the start of Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign, medical advice has prompted the team management to adopt a cautious approach. As a result, Hazlewood is expected to remain in Australia for further recovery rather than travelling immediately with the squad.
The injury is the latest in a series of physical setbacks for Hazlewood. He had earlier missed the tour of England due to a hamstring strain, which also forced him out of the Ashes series. During his recovery from that injury, he developed issues with his Achilles tendon, extending his time away from competitive cricket.
With Hazlewood’s availability uncertain, Australia have added Sean Abbott to the squad as a travelling reserve. The move is aimed at strengthening the pace bowling options in case Hazlewood is unable to return during the tournament’s early stages. Abbott’s inclusion provides depth and flexibility to the squad, especially in fast bowling friendly conditions expected in parts of the competition.
Meanwhile, several key Australian players are set to rejoin the team in Colombo. Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Ellis and Tim David, who had missed earlier engagements, are scheduled to link up with the squad ahead of the tournament. Their return is expected to provide a significant boost to Australia’s balance in both batting and bowling departments.
Australia will play a warm up match against the Netherlands on Thursday as part of their final preparations. The game is expected to help the team fine tune combinations before their opening match of the tournament against Ireland on February 11.
Hazlewood had earlier expressed optimism about returning in time for the T20 World Cup after speaking about his recovery progress. However, the team management remains focused on ensuring long term fitness rather than rushing him back prematurely. A final decision on his participation will depend on how he responds to rehabilitation over the coming weeks.
Australia’s coaching staff are expected to closely monitor the situation while adjusting their plans based on player availability. With multiple senior players managing injuries, the tournament presents a test of squad depth and adaptability.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, Australia will hope to stabilise their lineup and regain momentum. Hazlewood’s experience and consistency remain highly valued, and the team will be keen to have him available as soon as he is medically cleared to compete.
