SYDNEY: Australia have suffered a major setback just one day before the start of the ICC T20 World Cup, as fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the tournament due to fitness concerns.
Cricket Australia confirmed that Hazlewood failed to regain full fitness in time, forcing him to withdraw from the global event.
Australia’s chief selector Tony Dodemaide said the team had hoped Hazlewood would recover before the Super 8 stage, but medical staff advised that the pacer requires more time to fully recover.
“We were optimistic that Josh would be fit by the Super 8s, but he still needs time. At this stage, we are not announcing a replacement, as we have sufficient bowling options available for the opening matches,” Dodemaide said.
This is the second major injury blow for Australia, as captain Pat Cummins has already been ruled out of the T20 World Cup due to injury.
The ICC T20 World Cup begins tomorrow, with Pakistan set to play their opening match against the Netherlands.
