Sydney, February 6: Australia’s cricket team has suffered another significant blow. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has officially withdrawn from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The tournament is set to commence on Saturday in Sri Lanka and India, but Hazlewood has not recovered in time.
Hazlewood sustained a hamstring injury during the last Sheffield Shield match before the Ashes series, which prevented him from participating in the series against England. During his recovery, he also developed an issue with his Achilles, complicating his return further.
Since November 12, Hazlewood has not played any matches. Despite this, he was included in the World Cup squad. However, upon the team’s arrival in Sri Lanka, he remained in Sydney. Just five days before the first match against Ireland on February 11, selectors confirmed that he is still far from being fully fit.
National selector Tony Dodemaide stated, “We hoped Josh would achieve match fitness by the Super 8 stage, but recent indications suggest he will need more time. Accelerating his program would involve significant risk.”
Australia will not announce a replacement for Hazlewood at this time. Selectors believe the team is balanced for the initial matches and will make decisions based on the tournament’s needs and conditions as it progresses.
Despite not playing T20 cricket for nearly four years, Hazlewood has an impressive record. He played a crucial role in helping Australia win the T20 World Cup in 2021, taking three wickets for just 16 runs in the final against New Zealand. He has claimed 133 wickets at an average of 20.44 and an economy rate of 7.57.
The 35-year-old Hazlewood joins fellow injured fast bowler Pat Cummins on the sidelines. Currently, Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis are the only fully fit fast bowlers available. Sean Abbott, who is traveling with the team as a reserve, may be included later as Hazlewood’s replacement.
Regarding other players, Nathan Ellis and Tim David are expected to be available for the group stage, having also dealt with hamstring issues. Adam Zampa is expected to be fit for the first match in Colombo next week.
Australia’s practice match against the Netherlands was canceled, but the team has six days to prepare before their opening match against Ireland.
Team captain Mitchell Marsh expressed confidence that Australia is ready to handle any situation. He noted that the presence of all-rounders like Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green strengthens the team. Additionally, spinners Matthew Kuhnemann and Adam Zampa provide balance. According to Marsh, the team is now fully prepared to take the field.
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