Australia captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 due to a persistent lower-back injury, forcing a late change to the squad for the tournament in India.
Cummins was part of the provisional squad but has not played any competitive cricket since the Adelaide Test against England in mid-December. The fast bowler will now focus on recovery and is targeting a return after the World Cup.
Left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis has been added to Australia’s final 15 as Cummins’ replacement. The selectors have gone for a like-for-like option, banking on Dwarshuis’ ability to swing the ball and adapt to Indian conditions.
“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,” selector Tony Dodemaide said.
He added that Dwarshuis’ swing at good pace and clever variations made him well suited to the expected conditions in India, while also fitting well into the overall balance of the squad.
Australia have also made a change in the batting group, with Matt Renshaw replacing Matthew Short. Renshaw’s inclusion adds spin options and flexibility in the middle order, along with strong 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,” Dodemaide explained.
“As a left-hander, Renshaw also offers a point of difference to the middle order batting,” he added, underlining the team’s focus on variety and match-ups.
One notable absence remains Steven Smith, who continues to be left out of Australia’s T20I plans despite an excellent Big Bash League season. The move suggests Australia are sticking with their current direction and moving away from Smith in the shortest format.
With the loss of a senior quick like Cummins, Australia are clearly reshaping their World Cup plans. The selection of a left-arm seamer and a spin-capable batter highlights their focus on Indian pitches and squad balance.
Australia Squad for T20 World Cup 2026:
Mitchell Marsh (C), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa