Australia’s preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has hit a speed bump, with fast bowler Nathan Ellis sidelined due to a hamstring injury during the ongoing Big Bash League. The Hobart Hurricanes captain was ruled out after Australia’s title hopes ended against the Sydney Sixers on January 23, leaving fans and selectors worried about his fitness ahead of the global tournament starting February 7.
Ellis has been in fine form this season, picking up 14 wickets in nine matches at an economy of 9.03, making him a key figure in Australia’s pace attack. His absence not only weakens Hobart’s lineup but also adds to Australia’s growing list of fast-bowling concerns.
Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, who are also part of Australia’s T20 World Cup provisional squad, have been managing fitness issues. Hazlewood, out since November and having missed the Ashes, is expected to return to full fitness ahead of the World Cup, while Cummins’ availability is awaited later in the tournament.
In a bid to manage workloads, Ellis has been rested for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Pakistan starting January 29, alongside Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Hazlewood, and Cummins. The series will serve as a crucial preparation platform for Australia, allowing fringe players to step up while the senior stars recover.
Australia’s bowling depth will be tested, and selectors might need to consider backup options if Ellis doesn’t recover in time. With the T20 World Cup just weeks away, fans will be watching closely to see if Australia’s pace battery can remain at full strength.
What’s Next:
- Australia faces Pakistan in a three-match T20I series starting January 29.
- Nathan Ellis’ recovery will be monitored closely in the coming weeks.
- Final T20 World Cup squad announcements are expected soon.
