Will Hazlewood Miss the Early Stages of T20 WC? Australia Adds Abbott as a Reserve
Synopsis
As the T20 World Cup approaches, Australia's preparations face uncertainty with Josh Hazlewood's potential absence. This article explores his condition and the team's adjustments, including the addition of Sean Abbott as a reserve.
Key Takeaways
Josh Hazlewood is likely to miss the early T20 World Cup matches.
Sean Abbott has been included as a travelling reserve.
Australia faces multiple fitness challenges ahead of the tournament.
The team is prioritizing long-term player health.
Australia's first match is set for February 11 against Ireland.
Sydney, Feb 2 (NationPress) Australia’s journey towards the T20 World Cup faces additional challenges as fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is expected to miss the initial phase of the tournament while he continues his recovery from an Achilles issue in Sydney. In light of this, Sean Abbott has been named as a travelling reserve in the squad.
Hazlewood, who was originally ruled out of the England series due to a hamstring strain, subsequently developed an Achilles problem during his rehabilitation. After discussions between the selectors and medical staff, it was determined that the seasoned pacer would remain in Australia for the time being, with no definitive timeline for his arrival in Sri Lanka.
Australia selector Tony Dodemaide mentioned that the decision was made with Hazlewood’s long-term health in mind.
"We believed it was more sensible and advantageous for Josh to continue his rehabilitation at home in a supportive environment before making the journey to Sri Lanka. With Nathan also finishing his return to play, we opted to take Sean with us as fast bowling backup in case of any last-minute issues," Dodemaide said, as reported by cricket.com.au.
"Sean is an experienced and adaptable international player who has been part of several World Cup campaigns. It was logical for him to stay with the team following the Pakistan tour," he added.
Abbott's addition comes as Australia grapples with multiple fitness issues within their squad. The defending champions have already lost Pat Cummins from the tournament, as the fast bowler requires extra time to recover from a back injury that kept him sidelined for four of the five Tests against England. Ben Dwarshuis was then added to the final 15-member squad, while Matt Renshaw took the place of Matthew Short.
Further complications arise, with several key players either just returning or still managing injuries. Nathan Ellis missed both Hobart Hurricanes’ BBL finals due to a hamstring problem, while Tim David has been absent since December 26 after suffering a hamstring injury during the BBL, marking his second such incident in eight months after a strain in the previous year’s IPL.
Glenn Maxwell, on the other hand, was rested for the Pakistan tour as part of the ongoing management of his previously broken ankle.
There were also minor injury concerns during Australia’s recent series in Pakistan. Adam Zampa bowled only two overs in the final ODI in Lahore and did not bat due to groin tightness, although Cricket Australia later classified the situation as precautionary.
Despite these hurdles, reinforcements are on the way. Maxwell, Ellis, and David are all anticipated to join the squad in Colombo on Tuesday after being absent from the Pakistan tour.
Australia is set to play a warm-up match against the Netherlands on Thursday before commencing their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 11.
Australia's squad for the T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
Travelling reserve: Sean Abbott
Point of View
Australia’s cricket team is in a challenging situation as they prepare for the T20 World Cup, with key players sidelined due to injuries. The decision to prioritize Josh Hazlewood's long-term health signifies a strategic approach to player management. The inclusion of Sean Abbott as a reserve shows the team's commitment to maintaining a competitive edge despite these hurdles.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Josh Hazlewood missing the T20 World Cup?
Josh Hazlewood is missing the early stages of the T20 World Cup due to ongoing rehabilitation from an Achilles injury.
Who is replacing Josh Hazlewood?
Sean Abbott has been named as a travelling reserve to replace Josh Hazlewood.
What other injuries are affecting the Australian squad?
Pat Cummins, Nathan Ellis, and Tim David are among several players currently dealing with injuries, impacting the team's preparations.
When does Australia play their first match in the T20 World Cup?
Australia's first match in the T20 World Cup is against Ireland on February 11.
What is the significance of having a travelling reserve?
A travelling reserve like Sean Abbott provides the team with additional flexibility and coverage in case of last-minute injuries or issues.
