Josh Hazlewood set for possible return at T20 World Cup 2026

Rajgeeta Yadav

Josh Hazlewood [AFP]Josh Hazlewood [AFP]

Australia’s experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is expected to make a comeback at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held next month across India and Sri Lanka. This news comes as a positive sign for Australia, especially after a long phase of injuries kept the senior pacer away from key matches. 

As the tournament draws closer, Hazlewood appears confident and focused on being ready in time, as reported by ESPN.

Josh Hazlewood’s fitness update ahead of T20 World Cup 2026 

Josh Hazlewood feels positive about his physical condition ahead of global tournament. The 34-year-old missed the Ashes series earlier due to a hamstring strain and later faced an Achilles issue during recovery. 

As a result, he will not take part in the final stages of the Big Bash League or the late-January series against Pakistan. Even so, his main aim is to feature in a warm-up game scheduled early next month, which could help him regain match rhythm before the tournament begins.

It is worth noting that Hazlewood’s recovery schedule works well with Australia’s World Cup plans. Australia will play their first match of the tournament against Ireland on February 11, giving the fast bowler additional time to reach full fitness. 

Chair of selectors George Bailey has earlier mentioned the option of resting Pat Cummins if required. Still, the team management cannot carry more than one player who may not be available from the start. 

In this context, Hazlewood’s steady progress is seen as timely and valuable for the squad.

"Everything's going to plan," Hazlewood told ESPNcricinfo about his recovery process.

Josh Hazlewood's ongoing injury struggles

In recent seasons, injuries have repeatedly disrupted Hazlewood’s career. Since 2022, he has dealt with side strains, calf issues, hamstring problems, and Achilles trouble. These setbacks kept him out of home Test matches, overseas tours, and major finals. 

Despite this, he managed a short stretch without injuries during the IPL, the World Test Championship final, the West Indies Tests, and a few limited-overs series. Missing another home Ashes series was a major disappointment for the pacer.

Australia hopeful of Hazlewood and Cummins return

At the same time, it is important to note that Australia have already announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. In this context, the selectors have chosen to include a few players who are currently recovering from injuries, which shows confidence in their progress.

As part of this decision, Pat Cummins, Hazlewood, and Tim David have all been named in the squad, which clearly shows team management’s belief in their recovery timelines and overall fitness.

“Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are tracking well and we are confident they will be available for the World Cup,” said George Bailey.

Meanwhile, Australia have been drawn in Group B along with Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. As the tournament schedule unfolds, the team will begin its T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 11 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka.