The 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will begin from the 7th of March, which will be hosted by India & Sri Lanka. All teams would be eager to do well in the month-long mega event. Australia are in a spot of bother as pacer Josh Hazlewood might miss the initial few matches of the tournament as he is undergoing rehabilitation after suffering from an Achilles injury.

Hazlewood’s injury is a major blow as the 35-year-old has been a vital figure for Australia in ICC tournaments. Australia will also miss Pat Cummins, the 32-year-old test & ODI captain, in the 2026 T20 World Cup due to a stress fracture. With Mitchell Starc retiring from the T20I career last year, it will be a tough task for Australia if Josh Hazlewood is unavailable for a few matches.

Hazlewood injured his hamstring before the 2025 Ashes series in Australia, and while undergoing rehabilitation, suffered an Achilles injury. Hence, Cricket Australia’s medical team thought it would be better if Hazlewood didn’t travel with the team.

Cricket Australia’s decision is also based on the long-term perspective of workload management, which can help him recover for crucial matches.

Cricket Australia is more watchful for Josh Hazlewood

According to Tony Dodemaide, selector of Cricket Australia, the decision was taken keeping in mind that Hazlewood recovers on time. Rehabilitation in Australia would be an advantage for him before he goes to join the squad for the World Cup. Pacer Sean Abbott has been included as a backup for Josh Hazlewood in the squad.

Currently, there is no official date on when the 35-year-old would be travelling for the event. His return will depend on his recovery after the rehabilitation process is complete. Cricket Australia will decide on his availability depending on his progress.

Players like Glenn Maxwell, Tim David and Nathan Ellis will be joining the squad in Colombo, Sri Lanka.