Australian cricket has been dealt a significant blow with star fast bowler Pat Cummins officially ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup campaign. The decision comes as Cummins continues his recovery from a niggling back injury that has plagued him for over six months, forcing selectors to make late changes to the squad.
Late Squad Changes Announced
With Cummins unavailable for the tournament in Sri Lanka and India, selectors have turned to Sydney Sixers stalwart Ben Dwarshuis, who receives a late call-up. Additionally, former Test opener Matt Renshaw, who made his T20 international debut just two days ago in Pakistan, has been included as a replacement for the injured Matt Short.
Selector's Rationale for Replacements
Australia selector Tony Dodemaide explained the reasoning behind the selections. "With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late order hitting," Dodemaide said.
He elaborated on Dwarshuis's suitability: "We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and overall structure of the squad."
Regarding Renshaw's inclusion, Dodemaide highlighted his recent form: "Matt has impressed in all formats of late, including in multiple roles in white ball formats for Australia, the Queensland Bulls and the Brisbane Heat."
He added strategic considerations: "With the top order settled and spin heavy conditions expected in the pool stages in Sri Lanka, we also feel Matt provides extra middle order support, with Tim David completing his return-to-play program in the early phase of the tournament. As a left hander, he also offers a point of difference to the middle order batting."
Notable Omission and Squad Details
In a notable decision, Test superstar Steve Smith was overlooked for selection despite pressure to include him following his unbelievable cameo for the Sydney Sixers late in this season's BBL.
The revised Australian squad for the T20 World Cup is now confirmed as:
- Mitch Marsh (captain)
- 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
Upcoming Fixtures
Australia will play another T20 against Pakistan after losing the opening game on Thursday night. Their World Cup campaign officially begins with an opener against Ireland on February 11 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
