Hazlewood Injury: Abbott Named Reserve for T20 World Cup

Sydney, February 11, 2026 – Australia’s T20 World Cup plans have hit a snag with star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood set to remain in Sydney for continued rehabilitation of an Achilles issue, possibly missing the tournament’s early matches. The team has added Sean abbott as a travelling reserve to bolster the pace attack.

Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Ellis, adn Tim david are expected to join the squad in colombo on Tuesday, having previously missed the Pakistan tour. Australia will face the Netherlands in a warm-up match on Thursday before their World Cup opener against Ireland on February 11.

Did you know? – Australia has won the T20 World Cup onyl once, in 2021, defeating New Zealand in the final. this year’s tournament is being held in Sri Lanka, presenting unique challenges.

Hazlewood initially experienced a hamstring strain during the England series and then developed the Achilles problem while recovering. Selectors have opted for a cautious approach, prioritizing his recovery in a familiar environment.

“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,” explained selector tony Dodemaide. “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.”

Dodemaide further emphasized Abbott’s value,stating,”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.”

Australia has already suffered a blow with Pat Cummins ruled out of the T20 World Cup due to a back injury that sidelined him for four of the five Tests against England. Ben Dwarshuis has been added to the 15-man squad, and Matthew Short has been replaced by Matt Renshaw.

Pro tip – Managing player workloads and prioritizing recovery is crucial in modern cricket, especially with a packed international schedule. Australia’s cautious approach reflects this.

Hazlewood’s absence adds to a growing list of injury concerns within the Australian squad. Nathan Ellis missed both of the Hobart Hurricanes’ BBL finals due to a hamstring issue. Tim David hasn’t played since December 26, when he sustained a hamstring injury in the BBL – his second such injury in eight months, following a strain in the IPL last year. Glenn Maxwell’s participation is also being managed following a previously broken ankle.

Adam Zampa experienced “groin tightness” during Australia’s series against Pakistan in Lahore, bowling only two overs in the final match and not batting, though officials described the issue as “precautionary.”

Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Mitchell Marsh (capt),Xavier Bartlett,Cooper Connolly,Tim David,Ben Dwarshuis,Cameron Green,Nathan Ellis,Josh Hazlewood,Travis Head,josh Inglis,Matt Kuhnemann,Glenn Maxwell,Matt Renshaw,Marcus Stoinis,Adam Zampa,Sean Abbott (travelling reserve)

Reader question – With so many key players nursing injuries,do you think Australia has enough depth to contend for the T20 World Cup title? Share your thoughts!

Description of Changes & Answers to Questions:

* From Thin Update to Substantive news Report: The original text was a series of updates. The edited version presents a cohesive news report focusing on the injury concerns impacting Australia’s T20 World cup preparations. it provides context and quotes from selectors.
* Why: Australia’s T20 World Cup plans are disrupted by a wave of injuries to key players, including Josh Hazlewood (Achilles), Pat Cummins (back), Nathan Ellis and Tim David (hamstring), and Glenn Maxwell (ankle).
* Who: The key individuals involved are