Is Josh Hazlewood Ready for BBL Return Before T20 World Cup 2026?

Key Takeaways

Josh Hazlewood returns to the Sydney Sixers as a supplementary contracted player.

His presence strengthens the squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 .

Hazlewood has a history of injuries but is now fully fit.

The Big Bash League allows for supplementary contracts to manage player availability.

Fans are eager to see Hazlewood back in action after a long absence.

Sydney, Jan 6 (NationPress) Australia’s premier fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has achieved full fitness as he prepares for the T20 World Cup 2026. He is poised to make his competitive comeback after signing with the Sydney Sixers for the remainder of the Big Bash League 2025-26 season. The right-arm pacer has been included as a supplementary contracted player and will play for the Sixers throughout the tournament.

“We’re thrilled to announce the return of Josh Hazlewood as a supplementary contracted player for KFC BBL 15,” the Sydney Sixers stated on their social media channels.

In the Big Bash League, a supplementary contract allows clubs to recruit players contracted with Cricket Australia who may have limited availability due to national team duties.

This strategy was implemented to assist BBL franchises in securing top Australian talent without compromising a valuable position on their primary 18-man squad or incurring a substantial salary-cap penalty for a player who might not participate in many games.

Josh Hazlewood is recognized as one of the top fast bowlers globally, showcasing his skill across all three formats due to his precision, bounce, and dependability. His presence is highly valued by every team he plays for. Unfortunately, the Australian pacer has a history of injuries. He was sidelined during the recent Ashes Test series due to a hamstring issue.

While recuperating, he faced another setback with an Achilles injury, which further postponed his return. His comeback in the BBL is a relief to both his fans and the Australian cricket team, which is aiming for a second title in the upcoming T20 World Cup set to take place in the subcontinent.

Hazlewood’s return will significantly bolster the Sydney Sixers lineup, especially with Mitchell Starc and Steve Smith also expected to join the team after the Sydney Test. Since 2019, Hazlewood has not participated in the BBL and has only played for the Sydney Sixers. In his last appearance, he played in only one match.

The seasoned pacer has also been named in the Australian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, highlighting his significance in the national team as he regains full fitness.

Point of View

It's clear that Josh Hazlewood's return is a momentous occasion for both the Sydney Sixers and the Australian national team. His experience and skill are invaluable, particularly as Australia gears up for the T20 World Cup 2026. As we celebrate his recovery, we hope this inspires other athletes facing injury setbacks.

NationPress

10 May 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a supplementary contract in the BBL?

A supplementary contract in the BBL allows teams to sign players who are contracted with Cricket Australia but may have limited availability due to national team commitments.

When did Josh Hazlewood last play in the BBL?

Josh Hazlewood last played in the BBL in 2019, where he featured in only one match.

What injuries did Hazlewood suffer recently?

Josh Hazlewood recently faced a hamstring injury during the Ashes and an Achilles issue during his recovery, which delayed his return to play.

Why is Hazlewood's return significant for the T20 World Cup?

Hazlewood's return is significant because he is a key player for Australia, whose skills and experience will be crucial in their pursuit of a second T20 World Cup title.

Which team is Hazlewood returning to in the BBL?

Josh Hazlewood is returning to the Sydney Sixers for the remainder of the Big Bash League 2025-26 season.