Headlines from New Delhi: Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener looms on February 11 versus Ireland, but injuries to Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood cast shadows. Nathan Ellis, stepping into the breach as chief pacer, admits the ‘huge dent’ yet forecasts superior results.
The experienced Ellis marshals Ben Dwarshuis and Xavier Bartlett, bolstered by all-round threats Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis. Reserve Sean Abbott backs them up, with no Hazlewood stand-in announced.
Ellis reflected thoughtfully: ‘Parting with a world-beater reshapes us. Josh’s tough months prevented his return – harsh. I’ll reshape accordingly, though his absence stings perpetually.’
On unit synergy: ‘Eighteen to 24 months sans Starc, Cummins, Hazlewood – Test duties amped our load. Ideal for nurturing ties on and beyond the pitch. We click as one.’
He spotlighted strengths: ‘Distinct skill boxes enable seamless phase integration. Hard yards over 18 months normalize operating without those icons.’ Starc’s T20 exit and the duo’s injury/workload pauses frame the context.
This tests Australia’s famed depth. Under Ellis’s guidance, the pace group eyes not just survival but dominance, transforming setbacks into a launchpad for glory in the marquee event.