Star RCB pacer likely to miss early phase of the T20 World Cup 2026; replacement announced

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fast bowler Josh Hazlewood may miss the opening matches of the T20 World Cup 2026, as he will stay in Sydney to continue his recovery from an Achilles injury. Right-arm pacer Sean Abbott, who played in Australia’s recent series against Pakistan, has been named as a reserve in the squad.

The 35-year-old has not played in recent weeks. He missed the start of the 2025–26 Ashes series due to a hamstring strain and later suffered an Achilles problem while returning to fitness.

Hazlewood was initially sidelined with a hamstring injury before the Achilles setback occurred. After reviewing his condition, Cricket Australia’s medical team decided he should remain at home and focus on regaining full fitness before linking up with the World Cup group.

Also read -“Choose His Moments Smartly” – Legendary Indian cricketer congratulates Carlos Alcaraz on maiden Australian Open title

Selector Gives Fitness Update on Hazlewood

Providing an update on Josh Hazlewood’s fitness, selector Tony Dodemaide said, as quoted by Cricket Australia, that it was better for the fast bowler to continue his recovery at home.

“We felt it was more practical and helpful for Josh to continue his rehabilitation in a familiar setting before travelling to Sri Lanka,” Dodemaide said.

Cummins Ruled Out, Others Join Squad

As Hazlewood races against time, Cricket Australia confirmed on January 31 that Pat Cummins will miss the T20 World Cup 2026 due to an ongoing back problem. Left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis has been named as his replacement.

Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Ellis, and Tim David are set to join the Australian squad in Colombo on Tuesday. The trio missed the Pakistan tour and will be available for the warm-up match against the Netherlands on Thursday, February 5.

Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule

The 2021 champions have been placed in Group B for the T20 World Cup 2026. Australia will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 11 in Colombo. They will then face Zimbabwe on February 13 in Colombo, Sri Lanka on February 16 in Kandy, and Oman on February 20, also in Kandy.

Australia Squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Australia’s squad includes Mitch Marsh (captain), Travis Head, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.

Sean Abbott has been named as the travelling reserve.