Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign never gathered momentum, as group-stage defeats to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe ensured the tournament ended before it truly began.
The absence of senior fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood was a major talking point throughout the competition.
Both were sidelined with injury concerns, leaving a less experienced attack to navigate high-pressure matches.
Now, Cummins and Hazlewood’s anticipated participation in the IPL has reignited debate among supporters still processing the early exit.
However, selectors insist the situation is a matter of scheduling rather than misplaced priorities.
Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood timing explained by selectors
Hazlewood’s fitness issues have lingered for months. What began as a hamstring problem in November evolved into ongoing Achilles and calf concerns.
Cummins’ situation was different but equally frustrating. He has not played since the third Ashes Test in mid-December, where he delivered a match-defining spell to help seal a series win.
Management opted to protect a lumbar stress issue in his back, initially targeting the T20 World Cup as the long-term goal, before ultimately withdrawing him from the squad.
Both players are now expected to return in the IPL, a development that may feel awkward given Australia’s struggles without them.
Selector Tony Dodemaide dismissed any suggestion of divided loyalties.
“It is what it is. It’s a timing issue,” he told reporters on Wednesday. “If it were in reverse, the IPL was first, and the World Cup was second, then they’d be missing the IPL to play in the World Cup.
“It’s not going to be frustrating for us at all. We know their commitment to want to play and succeed for Australia.”
Cameron Green backed despite difficult tournament
While the bowling absences drew headlines, attention has also turned to Cameron Green after a lean run of form.
The all-rounder struggled for fluency in the World Cup, posting scores of 21, 0 and 3 following a quiet Ashes series.
Dodemaide was quick to offer perspective, pointing to Green’s broader body of work.
“He’s been very, very good for us in 2025, and in the series in Pakistan,” he explained.
“He was the best batter in the Pakistan series, which I know was sort of a bit off Broadway as far as attention was back home.
“He’s still developing his game across all formats, and obviously physically as well. He’s a very, very fine player who is important for us in all formats.”
The selector’s stance suggests Green remains central to Australia’s long-term plans, even if this tournament raised uncomfortable questions.
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