Australia Rest Cummins, Hazlewood for Pakistan T20Is Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Australia national cricket team have named a reshuffled squad for their upcoming T20I series against Pakistan national cricket team, opting to rest several senior players as part of a cautious workload and injury management plan ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Key fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, along with power-hitter Tim David, have not been included in the squad for the three-match series, scheduled to be played in Lahore from January 29 to February 1. All three players are currently recovering from injuries and have been given additional time to regain full fitness.

Cummins is managing a back injury, with his availability for the T20 World Cup dependent on the results of a medical scan later this month. Hazlewood and David are both nursing hamstring issues and are also on closely monitored recovery programmes. Despite their absence from the Pakistan tour, all three remain part of Australia’s provisional squad for the T20 World Cup 2026.

In addition to the injured trio, Australia have also rested all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and seamer Nathan Ellis as part of a broader strategy to manage workloads during a packed international calendar. The decision underlines Australia’s focus on ensuring their core players are fully fit for the global tournament.

Following the Pakistan T20I series, Australia will shift their attention to the T20 World Cup, where they are set to open their campaign on February 11 against Ireland in Colombo.

The absence of several senior players has opened the door for fresh faces. Perth Scorchers pacer Mahli Beardman and Sydney Sixers all-rounder Jack Edwards have earned call-ups after impressive performances in the ongoing Big Bash League.

Edwards has been one of the standout performers of the season, emerging as his team’s leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps at an average of 18.33. Beardman, meanwhile, has claimed eight wickets and played a key role in Perth Scorchers’ strong campaign. While neither player has made an international debut yet, both have previously been part of Australia’s extended white-ball squads, gaining valuable exposure at the national level.

The touring party still features significant experience, with captain Mitch Marsh leading a 17-member squad that includes Travis Head, Cameron Green, Adam Zampa, Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis. A total of ten players from Australia’s T20 World Cup squad have been retained for the Pakistan tour, ensuring continuity while also testing bench strength.

As Australia balance preparation with player welfare, the Pakistan series is expected to provide crucial match practice for fringe players while allowing senior stars the time needed to be fully fit for the T20 World Cup.