Australian pace bowler Josh Hazlewood will not participate in the T20 World Cup 2026. Cricket Australia announced this decision just before the tournament starts.
Chief selector Tony Dodemaide expressed hope that Hazlewood would recover in time for the later rounds, but his injury recovery will take longer than expected. Australia will wait to name a replacement until necessary during the tournament.
“We were optimistic Josh would be ready for the Super Eights, but he still has some way to go. Pushing his recovery could pose a risk. We believe we have enough depth for the initial matches and will assess the need for a replacement later,” Dodemaide stated as reported by cricket.com.au.
David, Zampa, Ellis fit to play
In a positive update, Australian management confirmed that Tim David and Nathan Ellis are fit for the league stage. Veteran spinner Adam Zampa is also available for the opening match against Ireland on February 11.
Australia’s updated squad for T20 World Cup 2026
Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
Travelling reserve: Sean Abbott
Australia’s schedule for T20 World Cup 2026
| Date | Opposition | Venue | Time (IST) |
| February 11 | Ireland | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 3:00 PM |
| February 13 | Zimbabwe | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 11:00 AM |
| February 16 | Sri Lanka | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy | 7:00 PM |
| February 20 | Oman | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy | 7:00 PM |