Hazlewood to link up late with Australia’s T20 World Cup squad in Sri Lanka

Hazlewood to link up late with Australia's T20 World Cup squad in Sri Lanka

Australia will arrive in Sri Lanka for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup without Josh Hazlewood, who is set to remain in Sydney as he continues rehabilitation from an Achilles injury. Australia have named Sean Abbott as a travelling reserve.

While Glenn Maxwell, Nathan Ellis and Tim David will join the squad in Colombo after missing the series in Pakistan, it was felt Hazlewood would benefit from spending more time in a familiar environment before travelling.

"We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka," selector Tony Dodemaide said.

"With Nathan also completing his return to play we decided to bring Sean with us as fast bowling cover should anything come up at short notice. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour."

As a result, Hazlewood's availability for Australia's opening match against Ireland on February 11 remains uncertain.