6 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : Australia suffered a major setback ahead of the T20 World Cup after fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was ruled out of the tournament due to injury, with selectors yet to announce his replacement. The development has forced the Australian team management to rethink its bowling combination just weeks before the global event, where the defending champions were expected to rely heavily on their experienced pace attack.
Hazlewood, one of Australia’s most dependable fast bowlers across formats, has been sidelined after failing to recover fully from a fitness issue sustained during recent international and domestic commitments. Team officials confirmed that medical assessments ruled out the possibility of him regaining match fitness in time for the tournament, prompting his withdrawal from the squad.
The absence of Hazlewood is a significant blow to Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign. Known for his accuracy, bounce, and ability to deliver under pressure, Hazlewood has been a key figure in Australia’s white-ball success over the years. His performances in powerplays and death overs have often provided Australia with crucial breakthroughs and control, particularly on big occasions.
Australia’s selection panel has opted to delay naming a replacement, suggesting they are weighing multiple options depending on conditions, opposition, and the fitness status of other bowlers. The delay indicates a strategic decision rather than uncertainty, as the team looks to maintain balance in its squad.
Several fast bowlers are reportedly in contention for the vacant spot. Australia boasts considerable depth in pace bowling, with a mix of experienced campaigners and younger options who have impressed in domestic cricket and franchise leagues. Selectors are expected to consider factors such as recent form, adaptability to subcontinental or Caribbean conditions, and the ability to handle pressure at the international level.
Hazlewood’s absence could also lead to a reshuffle in Australia’s bowling roles. Senior pacers may be required to shoulder additional responsibility, while spin options could gain greater prominence depending on pitch conditions. The team management may also look at all-rounders who can provide flexibility with both bat and ball.
Captain and coaching staff have expressed disappointment over Hazlewood’s unavailability but remain confident in the squad’s overall strength. They emphasised that injuries are part of elite sport and that Australia’s bench strength allows them to remain competitive despite such setbacks.
The timing of Hazlewood’s injury is particularly unfortunate, given his recent form. He had been instrumental in Australia’s limited-overs plans, combining consistency with experience gained from playing across formats and leagues. His calm presence on the field and ability to execute plans under pressure will be difficult to replace.
From a tactical perspective, Hazlewood’s strength lies in his ability to extract bounce even on slower surfaces, making him effective in a wide range of conditions. His absence may force Australia to adapt their strategies, particularly against top-order batters who have struggled against disciplined pace bowling.
Fans and former players have reacted with concern but also optimism. Many believe Australia’s strong pace pipeline ensures that the team will not be overly weakened, even without one of its premier bowlers. However, there is consensus that Hazlewood’s experience in knockout matches would have been invaluable.
The selection committee is expected to announce the replacement in the coming days, once final consultations with team management and medical staff are completed. The decision will be closely watched, as it could offer an opportunity for an emerging player to make his mark on the world stage.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, Australia will now focus on fine-tuning combinations and ensuring all remaining squad members are fully fit. Despite the setback, the team remains one of the strongest contenders, with a powerful batting lineup and a versatile bowling attack.
Hazlewood, meanwhile, is expected to continue his rehabilitation with an eye on future international assignments. Team officials indicated that his long-term fitness remains a priority, and he will not be rushed back into action.
While Australia waits to name a replacement, the focus remains on preparation and adaptability—qualities that have defined their success in international cricket. The coming days will reveal how the reigning champions adjust to this challenge as they aim to defend their T20 World Cup title.
Summary
Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup due to injury, dealing a blow to Australia as selectors delay naming his replacement ahead of the tournament.