New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Australia’s chief selector George Bailey has shared an update regarding the participation of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Tim David in the T20 World Cup. Test and ODI captain Cummins is set to miss the tournament opener, while David is expected to be fit for the start of the tournament, despite a minor setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Cummins, who has been given a break for the upcoming three T20Is against Pakistan, will not be traveling to Sri Lanka prior to the World Cup. As noted by Bailey, the pacer is scheduled to join the squad after their second group-stage match against Zimbabwe on February 13. Additionally, fast bowler Hazlewood is also on track to be available for the tournament's opening match.

Since his single appearance during the Ashes series, Cummins has been rested to aid Australia in retaining the urn in Adelaide.

"As with nearly every tournament we approach, especially during a busy period, we are working closely with the individuals to ensure they receive the best preparation possible so that when they rejoin the World Cup squad, they are ready to excel," Bailey stated, as reported by cricket.com.au.

Australia has until January 31 to finalize their World Cup squad and has yet to select any traveling reserves for the tournament.

"Part of this will certainly depend on how Hazlewood and Cummins are progressing and their fitness for the tournament. If both are doing well, the focus will be on addressing any potential gaps that may arise during the tournament," Bailey added.

Bailey confirmed that David faced a 'very minor setback' in his rehabilitation last week, which hindered his ability to complete a running session. However, he has since been declared free of any damage. It was merely a consequence of a taxing week, and he is still on track for the tournament's commencement; Hazlewood is in a similar situation," Bailey noted.

David's Big Bash season was cut short due to a hamstring injury sustained while batting for the Hurricanes on December 26. Hazlewood has not played since early November when he suffered a right hamstring injury while bowling for NSW in the Sheffield Shield. An Achilles issue during his rehabilitation sidelined him for the entire Ashes series.

Bailey also indicated that Steve Smith's name might be considered should a senior position open up. "It’s a fantastic challenge to have," he remarked. "He has been performing excellently, as he has demonstrated in the BBL over the last couple of years, in a position where we have robust coverage. I wouldn’t want to dismiss Steve’s capability to bat elsewhere, as he has proven his versatility on many occasions."