T20 World Cup 2026: Injuries Leave Australia Short of Firepower

Australia’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have been dealt a significant setback, with key fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood unlikely to be available at the start of the tournament. Ongoing injury concerns have left the defending contenders short on experience and pace.

T20 World Cup 2026: Australia Face Major Injury Setbacks

Australia are set to begin the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled from February 7 to March 8, with a depleted fast-bowling unit. Captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that Josh Hazlewood is unlikely to return to competitive action until midway through the tournament, dealing a major blow to Australia’s campaign.

Both Cummins and Hazlewood have spent extended periods on the sidelines due to injury concerns in recent months.

Josh Hazlewood’s Injury Struggles Continue

Hazlewood has been battling hamstring and Achilles injuries, which forced him to miss the recently concluded Ashes series in Australia. Despite earlier optimism from team management, his recovery has been slower than expected.

Last month, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald had indicated that Hazlewood was on track to be fit for Australia’s World Cup opener against Ireland on February 11.

However, Cummins provided a more cautious update on Hazlewood’s availability.

Cummins Provides Honest Update on Hazlewood’s Fitness

Speaking to Australian broadcaster Nine Network, Cummins acknowledged Hazlewood’s efforts while expressing concern over his delayed return.

"I caught up with Joshy a couple of days ago and he’s working so hard. I really feel for Joshy, he's had a few setbacks, (he’s) one of the hardest trainers," Cummins said.

"He's doing everything he can. I don't think he will be there for the start of the tournament, but he's trying his best to be there about halfway through."

Australia Undermanned as Starc Retires and Cummins Sidelined

Australia’s pace resources have been further stretched with Mitchell Starc retiring from T20 internationals, while Cummins himself is currently sidelined with back problems.

The team enters the World Cup on the back of a disappointing run, having suffered a 111-run defeat to Pakistan, which completed a 3–0 series whitewash.

Big Bash League Scheduling Adds to Australia’s Challenges

Cummins admitted that the late arrival of players to Pakistan after commitments in the domestic Big Bash League may have contributed to Australia’s poor performance.

"It wasn’t the series we were hoping for," Cummins said.

"It’s always better when you’re winning, but they’ll shake that one off pretty quickly."

Cummins Rules Himself Out of World Cup Squad

Cummins also confirmed that he was unable to recover in time to be included in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad. The pacer played only one Test in the Ashes due to a lumbar bone stress injury.

"We wanted to give the back a little rest to make sure it’s right for what’s going to be a big rest of the year," he said.

"Minor setback, I should be right to go in a few weeks."

Focus Shifts to IPL 2026

While missing the World Cup, Cummins is expected to return to action in time for the Indian Premier League, which begins on March 26. He is set to lead Sunrisers Hyderabad as they look to build on recent success.

What This Means for Australia’s World Cup Campaign

With two of their most experienced fast bowlers unavailable at the start of the tournament, Australia will need to rely on less experienced pace options and adapt quickly to conditions. Hazlewood’s potential mid-tournament return could provide a crucial boost if Australia remain in contention.