Australia’s plans for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 have been thrown into disarray, with head coach Andrew McDonald suggesting a major tactical change could put the places of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David at risk.
Although Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David are expected to be named in Australia’s provisional 15-man squad ahead of the January 2 ICC deadline, the injury cloud and long-term team-building strategies mean their participation is not guaranteed.
Australia coach’s strategic blast for ICC T20 World Cup 2026
McDonald has spoken openly about the need for a “natural evolution” and “building a new core” for the 2026 campaign. Nevertheless, the Australian coach believes in backing experience and proven match-winners when it matters most.
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He confirmed that Cummins, Hazlewood and David will be named in Australia’s provisional squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 despite their injury concerns. McDonald stressed that a final decision on his availability would be taken depending on the situation.
McDonald also hinted that strong performances in the Big Bash League or any new injury concerns could force changes before the final squad is confirmed closer to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Pat Cummins’ tough battle for fitness
The biggest concern remains the Australian captain. A lumbar stress fracture in July has severely limited his playing time. He returned in the Adelaide Test against England, after which he was immediately rested as McDonald did not want to take any risks with his long-term fitness.
Interestingly, Cummins has not played any T20 International since the 2024 T20 World Cup, but the Kangaroos are keen to take him to the subcontinent for the showpiece event.
ESPN Cricinfo quoted McDonald as saying, “I think Pat will have a scan in the next four weeks, which will give us an idea of where he is for the World Cup. He will be named in the 15-man squad and then we will get information about where he is.”
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Josh Hazlewood: Steady progress but questions remain
Hazlewood’s situation is more promising, yet his recent history raises questions about the long-term plan. After missing the entire 2025-26 Ashes against England at home due to hamstring and Achilles problems, the Australian fast bowler has now returned to bowling.
Earlier, his strong performance in the T20 series against India will work in his favor and the head coach is hopeful that Hazlewood will probably be fine for his last T20 World Cup.
“Josh is returning to bowling. It looks like he should be right in terms of the potential time frame,” McDonald said.
Tim David’s hamstring fear and the deadline
The explosive middle-order batsman suffered a hamstring injury during a Big Bash League match on Boxing Day and had to undergo a scan soon after. But it is believed that this injury is to the hamstring, different from the one he suffered during the IPL earlier this year, due to which he had to remain out of action for two months. However, McDonald is optimistic about David’s recovery.
“It’s not certain whether it’s just pure muscle or tendon, and that will give us a time limit. I think the time limit will be kind on TD as well. So, whatever the injury is, he should be available,” the Australian coach said.
Australia’s schedule in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is also in their favor. Their campaign begins on 11 February, with Ireland and Zimbabwe as their first two group-stage opponents. They will face Sri Lanka on February 16, which may give these stars extra time for recovery.
