Veteran Pacer to Recover in Sydney as Squad Faces Injury Crisis
Australia’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup have suffered another significant blow with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood confirmed to miss the tournament’s early stages. The 35-year-old will remain in Sydney to continue rehabilitation from hamstring and Achilles injuries that have kept him sidelined since November.
National selector Tony Dodemaide announced the decision late Monday, stating it was “more practical and beneficial” for Hazlewood to recover in a familiar environment before potentially joining the squad in Sri Lanka. No specific timeline has been provided for his return.
Abbott Called Up as Traveling Reserve
Experienced all-rounder Sean Abbott has been added to the touring party as a traveling reserve following Hazlewood’s withdrawal. Dodemaide highlighted Abbott’s versatility and World Cup experience as valuable assets for the squad.
The injury news compounds Australia’s recent struggles in the shortest format. The team arrives at the World Cup following a 3-0 series defeat against Pakistan and currently holds a five-match winless streak in T20 internationals.
Additional Bowling Concerns for Australia
Hazlewood’s absence follows the earlier confirmation that star paceman Pat Cummins will miss the entire tournament due to a lower back injury. Ben Dwarshuis has been named as Cummins’ replacement in the 15-man squad.
Australia’s bowling resources will receive some reinforcement with Nathan Ellis set to join the touring party on Tuesday, alongside power-hitters Glenn Maxwell and Tim David who missed the Pakistan series.
World Cup Schedule and Group Details
Australia competes in Group B of the tournament, with all their matches scheduled in Sri Lanka. Their campaign begins against Ireland in Colombo on February 11, followed by fixtures against co-hosts Sri Lanka, Oman, and Zimbabwe.
The team management will hope for improved performances after their disappointing warm-up results, with the absence of two key pace bowlers presenting additional challenges for their title defense aspirations.
