Just a day ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup, Australia have suffered a major setback, with experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury. The setback further complicates an already challenging build-up for Australia, who are already reeling from the absence of Pat Cummins, who too has been ruled out of the tournament.
Hazlewood has not featured in competitive cricket since picking up the injury during a Sheffield Shield match on November 12. Despite the prolonged absence, he was initially included in Australia’s World Cup squad, with management showing optimism that he might recover in time.
Notably, the rest of the squad travelled to Sri Lanka earlier this week to begin final preparations, but Hazlewood had remained in Sydney to continue his rehabilitation. National selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed Hazlewood's absence from the World Cup.
"We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super 8 stage but the latest indications he is still some time away and accelerating his program will carry too much risk," selector Tony Dodemaide stated. "We will not be naming a replacement player immediately. We feel we are well covered for the initial games so will make any later decisions based on priority need at the time."
Hazlewood enjoyed a tremendous year in 2025, playing eight T20I matches and claiming 12 wickets. Meanwhile, Australia enter the World Cup on the back of a 3-0 series defeat against Pakistan.