The 33-year-old pacer has faced a frustrating string of injuries in recent months. He was initially ruled out of the England series with a hamstring strain, before aggravating an Achilles issue during rehabilitation. Although Hazlewood had expressed optimism about being fit for the World Cup, selectors and medical staff have taken a cautious approach, prioritising his long-term fitness. Cricket Australia selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed that no definitive timeline has been set for Hazlewood’s arrival in Sri Lanka.
To cover Hazlewood’s absence, Sean Abbott has been added as a travelling reserve. Dodemaide explained that Abbott’s experience and familiarity with the group following the Pakistan tour made him a practical choice for fast-bowling cover.
“We felt it was more practical and beneficial for Josh to continue his rehabilitation at home before travelling. With Nathan also completing his return to play, Sean was the logical option for short-notice cover. He’s an accomplished international player with World Cup experience,” Dodemaide said.
Australia’s pace attack has already been depleted ahead of the tournament. Pat Cummins has been ruled out due to a back injury, Mitchell Starc has retired from T20Is, and Ben Dwarshuis was added to the squad in Cummins’ place. Other fast-bowling and all-round options have also faced fitness challenges: Nathan Ellis missed the BBL finals with a hamstring issue, Tim David has been sidelined since December due to a second hamstring injury, Glenn Maxwell was rested from the Pakistan tour while managing his previously broken ankle, and Adam Zampa experienced minor groin tightness in the final T20I against Pakistan.
Despite these setbacks, Australia will continue its World Cup preparations, including a warm-up match against the Netherlands in Colombo, before opening their campaign against Ireland on February 11.
