Australia Suffer Major Blow Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026, Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out Due to Injury

New Delhi: Just a day before the start of the T20 World Cup 2026, the Australian cricket team has suffered a massive setback that could impact their campaign significantly. Star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the tournament due to an Achilles injury, dealing a serious blow to Australia’s hopes of lifting the trophy.

The Australian team management was initially optimistic that Hazlewood could recover in time to return during the Super-8 stage, but fresh medical reports have confirmed that his rehabilitation will take longer than expected. The sudden development has left both the team and fans stunned as the tournament is set to begin imminently.

Selectors Refuse to Take Any Risk

Australian chief selector Tony Dodemaide made it clear that rushing Hazlewood’s recovery could prove dangerous and may worsen the injury. He stated that although there was hope of his return later in the tournament, current medical indicators suggest it would be unwise to include him in the squad.

Interestingly, Australia has not yet announced a replacement for Hazlewood. The selectors have decided to delay the decision, keeping in mind the conditions and team requirements during the early phase of the tournament.

Double Blow as Pat Cummins Also Missing

Hazlewood’s absence has added to Australia’s growing injury concerns. The team is already without their experienced pace spearhead and ODI/Test captain Pat Cummins, who has been sidelined with a back injury for several months.

Hazlewood himself has not played any competitive cricket since October 2025, after Australia’s series against India. With both Cummins and Hazlewood unavailable, Australia’s pace attack now looks significantly weakened, raising questions over their ability to dominate in pressure matches.

Ellis, Tim David Likely to Return; Zampa Set to Play

Amid the injury crisis, there is some relief for Australia. Fast bowler Nathan Ellis and hard-hitting batter Tim David are expected to regain fitness before the group stage begins.

Meanwhile, star spinner Adam Zampa is likely to be available for Australia’s opening match against Ireland next week in Colombo. Captain Mitchell Marsh has also stressed the importance of bowling variety and highlighted the role of spin options like Matthew Kuhnemann and Zampa in the tournament.

Australia’s World Cup Preparation and Schedule

Australia’s preparation has not been ideal, with their warm-up matches being affected by rain. However, the team will still get around six days to prepare before their first group match against Ireland.

Despite the current injury setbacks, Australia remains one of the most consistent sides in world cricket over the last 18 months. However, their confidence recently took a hit after a 3-0 T20 series defeat against Pakistan, and the team will now look to regroup quickly.

A Tough Road Ahead

With Hazlewood ruled out and Cummins already missing, Australia enters the T20 World Cup 2026 with a depleted bowling attack. The pressure will now be on players like Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, and the supporting pace unit to step up and fill the void left by two of their biggest match-winners.

As the tournament begins, Australia’s road to another world title has suddenly become far more challenging.