Big Blow for Australia as Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of T20 World Cup 2026
Australia has suffered a significant setback just days before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 gets underway in India and Sri Lanka. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, aged 35, has been ruled out of the tournament due to ongoing hamstring and Achilles injuries that prevented him from regaining full fitness in time.
Selectors had hoped Hazlewood could recover by the Super Eight stage, but officials ultimately decided that rushing his comeback would carry too much risk. As a result, Hazlewood will not travel with the team for the opening matches, and Australia has not yet named an immediate replacement. Cricket authorities say they are “well covered” for the initial games and will consider squad changes later based on team needs.
Hazlewood’s absence marks a rare moment for Australia, who will compete in a T20 World Cup without one of their most experienced pace bowlers. The tournament opener for the Australians is scheduled against Ireland in Colombo on February 11, 2026.
Australia’s Bowling Woes Deepen
Hazlewood’s withdrawal compounds Australia’s pace bowling challenges at the World Cup:
- Pat Cummins, the team’s Test captain and leading quick, was already ruled out earlier with a back injury, leaving a gap at the top of the attack.
- Mitchell Starc, a long-time T20 stalwart, retired from T20 internationals last year.
- A mix of other quicks — including Xavier Bartlett, Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis — are expected to share the new ball responsibilities, with Sean Abbott in reserve.
Australia’s bowling unit enters the tournament in a different shape than originally planned, although captain Mitchell Marsh has reiterated confidence in the squad’s ability to compete despite the setbacks.
T20 World Cup 2026 – Preview and Excitement Builds
The 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup officially begins on February 7, 2026, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. Teams from around the world will contest 55 high-octane matches, culminating in the final on March 8, 2026. This edition is expected to be one of the most widely watched in history, with passionate home crowds and intense rivalries — including marquee matchups like India vs Pakistan.
Cricket fans are already enjoying memorable warm-up performances, including a commanding win by India over South Africa in one key pre-tournament fixture. The build-up to the main event has also seen debates on squad form, fitness and World Cup favourite status.
Star-Studded ICC Commentary Panel Confirmed
To elevate the viewing experience, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a comprehensive commentary lineup for the World Cup. The panel blends iconic voices, former champions and expert analysts from around the globe.
Highlights of the commentary team include:
- Former players and veterans such as Ravi Shastri, Nasser Hussain, Ian Smith and Ian Bishop bringing decades of insight.
- Past T20 World Cup winners like Aaron Finch, Dinesh Karthik, Kumar Sangakkara, Samuel Badree, Robin Uthappa and Carlos Brathwaite joining the booth to share tournament experience.
- Legendary broadcasters and former stars including Eoin Morgan, Wasim Akram, Sunil Gavaskar, Matthew Hayden, Ramiz Raja, Dale Steyn, Michael Atherton, Waqar Younis, Simon Doull, Shaun Pollock and Katey Martin contributing analysis.
- Media faces like Harsha Bhogle and an extended team of seasoned cricket commentators and specialists supporting multi-market broadcasts.
- Recent champions such as Temba Bavuma and Angelo Mathews making commentary debuts, adding fresh perspective to coverage.
The ICC has said this diverse and high-profile panel will deliver enhanced coverage across global feeds, with pre-match insights, interval shows, post-match wrap-ups and daily highlights, ensuring fans worldwide enjoy expert commentary throughout the tournament.
Looking Ahead
Despite injuries affecting some key teams, the T20 World Cup 2026 remains poised to deliver thrilling cricket. Fans can expect electric atmospheres, strategic battles, standout individual performances and strategic surprises as the world’s best teams compete for the coveted title.
Australia will look to adapt to its altered bowling resources, while other sides aim to capitalize on home conditions and momentum. With expert analysis from a deep commentary roster, global audiences are set for a rich and immersive cricket festival.