Australia will be without Pat Cummins for the T20 World Cup as the pace bowler continues to recover from a persistent back injury. Ben Dwarshuis has been called up to replace him in the squad, with selectors conceding that Cummins would not be fit for the tournament in Sri Lanka and India.
Matt Renshaw has also been included in the revised 15-man squad as a replacement for Matt Short, making his T20 international debut only two days ago in Pakistan. Despite a stunning Big Bash League cameo for the Sydney Sixers, Steve Smith was overlooked for selection, with selectors seemingly deciding he is no longer suited to international T20 cricket.
“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,” said selector Tony Dodemaide. “We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions.”
“Matt [Renshaw] has impressed in all formats of late. With the top order settled and spin heavy conditions expected in Sri Lanka, he provides extra middle order support. As a left hander, he also offers a point of difference.”
Cummins has not played since Australia’s Ashes-clinching win in Adelaide in December, having rested with the T20 World Cup in mind. However, with a demanding 2027 schedule ahead, including tours of India and an away Ashes, the Test and ODI captain will not risk further injury.
Australia will play another T20 against Pakistan before their World Cup opener against Ireland on 11 February in Colombo.
