Australia have suffered a major setback ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with fast bowler Pat Cummins ruled out of the tournament due to a persistent back injury. The star paceman, who has struggled with fitness throughout the season, failed to recover in time for the event starting on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.
Cricket Australia confirmed that left-arm quick Ben Dwarshuis has been named as Cummins’ replacement in the final 15-man squad. Dwarshuis brings a left-arm pace option, strong fielding and useful late-order hitting to the team.
In other changes, Matthew Renshaw has been included in place of Matthew Short, who was omitted from the squad, while veteran Steve Smith missed out on selection despite strong domestic form.
Cummins had been kept in Australia’s provisional squad with hopes of availability during the Super Eight stage, but selectors said he “needs more time” to fully recover.
Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign begins against Ireland on February 11 in Colombo, as the team looks to balance its attack without its regular spearhead. (Newswire)
