Australia’s preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup have suffered a serious setback, with experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood officially ruled out of the tournament due to a lingering hamstring injury.
The 35-year-old pacer has not played competitive cricket since November and will now remain in Sydney to continue his rehabilitation.
Hazlewood was initially named in Australia’s World Cup squad despite not travelling with the team to Sri Lanka earlier this week. Selectors were hopeful that the veteran quick would regain match fitness in time for the Super Eight stage.
However, Cricket Australia confirmed that his recovery has not progressed as expected, forcing a late withdrawal just days before Australia’s opening match against Ireland in Colombo.
National selector Tony Dodemaide explained the decision, stating that pushing Hazlewood to return early would involve unnecessary risk.
The selection panel has also decided against naming an immediate replacement, believing the squad has sufficient depth to manage the early group matches.
Hazlewood’s absence further weakens Australia’s pace attack, which is already without Pat Cummins.
Cummins has been ruled out of the entire tournament due to a lower back injury, while Mitchell Starc retired from T20 internationals last year.
As a result, this will be the first ICC World Cup since 2011 in which none of Australia’s famous ‘Big Three’ fast bowlers will feature.
At present, Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis are the only fully fit frontline pacers available. Sean Abbott is travelling with the squad as a reserve and could be added later if selectors decide to replace Hazlewood.
Nathan Ellis is also recovering from a hamstring issue and remains doubtful for the tournament opener, though Cricket Australia has indicated he is on track to be available during the group stage. Adam Zampa, meanwhile, has been declared fit and will play a key role.
Given the conditions expected in Sri Lanka, Australia is likely to rely heavily on spin early in the competition.
Zampa will lead the attack alongside Matt Kuhnemann and Cooper Connolly, with all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green providing seam options.
Captain Mitch Marsh has expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and depth despite the injury concerns.
Australia entered the tournament under pressure after a disappointing lead-up, having lost a recent T20 series 3-0 to Pakistan, with another warm-up match washed out. They will face Ireland, Sri Lanka, Oman and Zimbabwe in Group B, with all matches scheduled in Sri Lanka.
Hazlewood’s withdrawal marks another frustrating chapter in an injury-hit phase of his career and leaves Australia facing a tough challenge as they begin their quest for a second T20 World Cup title.
