ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Pat Cummins Ruled Out, Dwarshuis Named Replacement. Australia have suffered a significant blow ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Fast bowler Pat Cummins has been ruled out due to injury. The decision was confirmed after medical assessments ahead of the final squad deadline. Cummins has been struggling with a recurring back problem in recent weeks. The medical team advised rest and rehabilitation instead of tournament participation. His absence removes leadership, pace, and experience from Australia’s bowling attack.
Ben Dwarshuis to replace Pat Cummins
Selectors moved quickly to name Ben Dwarshuis as his replacement. Dwarshuis adds left-arm variety and strong death-overs control to the squad. He has impressed consistently in domestic T20 leagues and recent international outings. Australia also made a change in the batting group before the tournament. All-rounder Matt Short has been left out of the final squad. Selectors cited team balance and recent form behind the tough call.
In his place, Matthew Renshaw has earned selection. Renshaw’s inclusion strengthens Australia’s middle-order depth. He also offers a valuable left-handed batting option in spin-friendly conditions. The revised squad will be led by Mitchell Marsh. Marsh takes charge with experience across global tournaments and franchise leagues. The squad blends power-hitters, versatile all-rounders, and proven wicket-takers.
Batting firepower comes from Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, and Marcus Stoinis. Josh Inglis will handle wicketkeeping duties with flexibility in the batting order. Cameron Green and Cooper Connolly provide balance with bat and ball. The bowling attack features Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, and Adam Zampa. Matthew Kuhnemann offers left-arm spin variation alongside Zampa’s leg-spin. Xavier Bartlett adds pace depth and swing options in early overs.
Despite Cummins’ absence, Australia remain confident of a strong campaign. Selectors believe squad depth will cover the leadership and bowling gap. Attention now shifts to preparation and final combinations before the opener.
Also Read: ICC T20 World Cup 2026: All Teams Squad PDF Download
Australia squad – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup
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.