Cummins Ruled Out as Australia Suffer Injury Blow Ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup

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 battled fitness issues throughout the season, was unable to recover in time for the event, which begins 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 adds variety with his left-arm pace, along with strong fielding skills and useful lower-order batting.

In other squad changes, Matthew Renshaw has been included in place of Matthew Short, who was omitted, while veteran Steve Smith missed out on selection despite strong domestic form.

Cummins had been retained in Australia’s provisional squad in the hope that he might be available during the Super Eight stage, but selectors said he “needs more time” to fully recover.

Australia will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 11 in Colombo, as they look to adjust their attack without their regular pace spearhead.