Australia’s Pat Cummins has been sidelined from the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka due to a persistent back injury that has troubled him for over six months. The 32-year-old Test captain managed only one match during his team’s successful 4-1 Ashes victory over England.
Despite being included in the provisional World Cup squad, selectors have chosen to replace Cummins with Ben Dwarshuis, a left-arm pace bowler recognized for his dynamic fielding ability and late-order hitting skills. Mathew Short has also been dropped in favor of Matt Renshaw, who recently made his T20 debut.
Selector Tony Dodemaide commented on the change, stating, “With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left-arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late-order hitting. We believe his ability to swing the ball at good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and the overall structure of the squad.”
Currently, Australia is engaged in a three-match T20 series in Pakistan as they gear up for the World Cup. Notably, veteran batsman Steve Smith, despite showcasing impressive form in the Big Bash League, was unable to secure a spot in the final squad.
The Australian team, now led by Mitchell Marsh, will kick off their World Cup journey against Ireland on February 11 in Colombo. Dodemaide further explained Renshaw’s selection, emphasizing that with the top-order batting lineup established and spin-heavy conditions anticipated during the pool stages in Sri Lanka, Renshaw provides valuable middle-order support and a contrasting left-handed option.
With these strategic selections, Australia aims to bolster their chances in the World Cup, showcasing a blend of youth and experience as they prepare to face their first challenge against Ireland.