When Will Josh Hazlewood Join T20 World Cup 2026 Australia Squad?

Australia has already suffered a major setback before a ball has been bowled in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to start on February 7. Star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is scheduled to miss the early rounds of the tournament as he continues his recuperation from an Achilles injury.

Hazlewood's recent international schedule has been hampered by a frustrating sequence of ailments. The right-arm fast was first ruled out of the England series owing to a hamstring ailment before picking up an Achilles issue during his recuperation. Despite the pacer's prior assurances that he will be ready for the World Cup, Australia's medical staff and selectors have chosen to be cautious. Selector Tony Dodemaide revealed that no precise schedule has been set for Hazlewood’s arrival in Sri Lanka, emphasising long-term fitness over hurrying him back into action.

T20 World Cup 2026 Australia Squad:

Josh Hazlewood could miss the early stages of the T20 World Cup as he will remain in Sydney to continue his rehabilitation from an Achilles issue with Sean Abbott added to Australia's squad as a travelling reserve pic.twitter.com/EGJmARN8YM

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) February 2, 2026

Unfortunately, the pacer sustained an Achilles injury while recovering from that setback, which further postponed his comeback to competitive cricket. Because of this, the medical staff of Cricket Australia determined that Josh Hazlewood would be better off staying in Sydney rather than travelling with the team before the World Cup.

Sean Abbott has been named to Australia's roster as a travelling reserve to cover for Hazlewood in fast bowling. Dodemaide noted that Abbott’s selection was a practical decision, considering his experience. Abbott was a reasonable choice if injury issues worsen because he stayed with the team following the tour of Pakistan.

Dodemaide said, "We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka. With Nathan also completing his return to play, we decided to bring Sean with us as fast bowling cover, should anything come up at short notice. Sean is an accomplished and versatile international player who has experienced numerous World Cup campaigns. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour."

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