New Delhi, February 9 – As Australia gears up for their T20 World Cup 2026 opener against Ireland on February 11, the team faces a significant setback with key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injuries. Nathan Ellis, the most experienced fast bowler in the current squad, acknowledges Hazlewood’s absence as a ‘major loss’ but remains optimistic about the team’s depth.
Ellis steps up to lead the pace attack alongside Ben Dwarshuis and Xavier Bartlett. The squad also boasts pace-bowling all-rounders Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis, providing versatility. No direct replacement has been named for Hazlewood, with Sean Abbott serving as a reserve pacer.
‘Shutting down a world-class bowler changes dynamics,’ Ellis said candidly. ‘It’s tough for us and especially for Josh after a challenging few months where he couldn’t get back on his feet. My role is to adapt as best I can, but his absence will always be felt.’
Reflecting on his partnership with Dwarshuis and Bartlett, Ellis highlighted their shared experience. ‘We’ve played 18 to 24 months together without the big three – Starc, Cummins, Hazlewood – carrying heavier loads in Tests. That time helped us build strong connections on and off the field. As a unit, we gel exceptionally well.’
He emphasized the diverse skill sets within the group. ‘We complement each other across phases. The work over the past 18 months means performing without those big names feels familiar, not new.’ Ellis was referring to Mitchell Starc’s T20 retirement and the workload management sidelining Cummins and Hazlewood.
Australia’s resilience will be tested early in the tournament. With Ellis at the helm, the pace battery aims to prove that depth can match star power, setting the tone for a strong campaign despite the hurdles.