Sydney’s cricket faithful received more bad news on the eve of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Australia’s premier pacer Josh Hazlewood has been officially ruled out of the tournament kicking off Saturday in Sri Lanka and India. Despite high hopes, the 35-year-old couldn’t recover in time from lingering injuries.
Hazlewood’s woes began with a hamstring injury during the final Sheffield Shield match before the Ashes. That sidelined him for the entire England series, and complications with his Achilles tendon during rehab only prolonged his absence. He hasn’t played a competitive match since November 12, yet selectors gambled by including him in the squad.
Arriving late to Sri Lanka while the team was already there, Hazlewood’s fitness remained a concern. Just five days before the opener against Ireland on February 11, national selector Tony Dodemaide delivered the verdict. ‘We hoped Josh would be match-ready by the Super 8s, but recent assessments show he needs more time. Rushing him risks everything,’ Dodemaide stated.
Australia won’t name a replacement immediately. Selectors believe the current lineup is balanced for early games, with decisions to follow based on tournament progression and conditions. Hazlewood’s T20 record remains stellar despite a four-year hiatus from the format. In the 2021 UAE World Cup, he starred in Australia’s title win, claiming 3-16 in the final against New Zealand. Across 56 matches, he boasts 133 wickets at an average of 20.44 and economy of 7.57.
Now, Hazlewood joins injured skipper Pat Cummins on the sidelines, leaving Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis as the only fully fit quicks. Travelling reserve Sean Abbott looms as a potential inclusion. Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis and Tim David could return from hamstring issues for the group stage, and Adam Zampa is set for the Colombo opener.
A practice match against Netherlands was scrapped, but Australia has six days to prep for Ireland. Captain Mitchell Marsh exudes confidence, highlighting all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green, plus spinners Matthew Kuhnemann and Zampa for depth. ‘We’re primed for any challenge,’ Marsh affirmed, signaling Australia’s resolve to defend their crown without key pacers.