Australia's T20 World Cup hopes take a hit: Star pacer ruled out of opening matches

Melbourne/Dubai (The Uttam Hindu): The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is just days away. Teams around the world are finalizing their preparations, but injury concerns have raised concerns for many teams. The biggest news comes from the Australian camp, where veteran fast bowler and Test captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the first match of the World Cup. This is nothing short of a blow to the Australian team.

Chief selector confirms Cummins will not be seen against Ireland

The Australian team is currently grappling with fitness issues among its players. Besides Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are also on the injured list. Australia's chief selector, George Bailey, has made it clear that Pat Cummins will miss the first match of the T20 World Cup. Australia is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 11th, but Cummins will not be available for this match. Additionally, Cricket Australia has announced the squad for the upcoming T20 series against Pakistan, resting Cummins. However, the team is relieved that Tim David is likely to be fit soon.

There could be a comeback from the match against Zimbabwe

The Australian team has been placed in Group B of the World Cup. After missing the team's first match against Ireland on February 11th, Cummins is expected to return for the team's second match against Zimbabwe on February 13th. If everything goes according to plan, he will be seen playing in this match. Following this, Australia's most important match in the league phase will be against Sri Lanka on February 16th. It should be noted that the Australian team will play all of its first round matches in Sri Lanka.

He played only one Test in the Ashes, and has until January 31st to make a change

Due to workload management and fitness concerns, Pat Cummins played only one match in the recently concluded Ashes series. He captained the team in the third Test and led them to victory, but Steve Smith captained the remaining two matches. Currently, all countries have announced their squads for the T20 World Cup. According to ICC regulations, if a player is injured and changes to the team are required, they have until January 31st. All eyes will now be on Australia's performance in the Pakistan series and the subsequent World Cup.