Australia’s preparation for the T20 World Cup has gone from bad to worse with premier paceman Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the tournament less than a week out from their opener.
Hazlewood has been battling a hamstring injury picked up in the Sheffield Shield in November, before an Achilles setback scuppered his Ashes hopes but he remained in the World Cup squad despite selectors admitting he would miss the start of the tournament.
However, five days out from their opening match against Ireland, national selector Tony Dodemaide has said it would be too much of a risk to rush him back.
“We were hopeful Josh would be back to match fitness by the Super Eights stage, but the latest indications are he is still some time away,” Dodemaide said. “Trying to accelerate his program will carry too much of a risk.