Another blow for Australia: Hazlewood ruled out of T20 World Cup

Australia’s T20 World Cup hopes have taken a severe hit as veteran pacer Josh Hazlewood was ruled out due to a lingering hamstring injury , deepening a mounting crisis in the team’s bowling lineup . With Mitchell Starc retired from T20Is, Pat Cummins sidelined by a back injury , and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell struggling with form .

Cricket Australia had earlier hoped Hazlewood could join during the middle stages of the tournament, which begins Saturday across India and Sri Lanka . However, selectors now say rushing his rehabilitation could be too risky. "We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super 8 stage , but the latest indications show he still needs time," selector Tony Dodemaide said. "We feel well covered for the early games and will reassess replacement needs later if required."

The depletion of Australia’s frontline pace attack puts added responsibility on younger bowlers Nathan Ellis and Tim David , while spinner Adam Zampa is expected to anchor the attack in the first match in Colombo next week. Despite the absence of Hazlewood and Cummins, no immediate replacements have been announced. Australia’s practice match against the Netherlands was abandoned, but the team still has a six-day preparation window before facing Ireland in their opening pool game on February 11 . Preliminary matches will be held in Colombo and Pallekele.

With three of their most experienced pacers unavailable and Glenn Maxwell struggling for form, Australia faces a daunting task in their title pursuit at the T20 World Cup . Selectors remain hopeful, but the early games will be crucial for the team to find rhythm and stability amid the bowling and form challenges.