Sean Abbott has been called into Australia’s T20 World Cup squad as Josh Hazlewood faces a race against the clock to be fit for the competition.
Hazlewood injured his hamstring in the last Sheffield Shield match before the Ashes and Achilles soreness only extended his rehabilitation.
The fast bowler was named in the squad on January 31, but two days later Australian selectors have announced his arrival in Sri Lanka will be delayed and he will remain in Sydney to continue his return to play program.
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The first match of the tournament for Australia is on February 11 against Ireland.
“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.
Nathan Ellis, Tim David and Glenn Maxwell all arrive in Colombo tomorrow having not been part of the Pakistan series that was lost 3-0.
Ellis missed the end of the BBL season with a hamstring injury while David did the same injury late last year.
As a result, Abbott has been selected for cover.
“Nathan, Tim and Glenn have arrived in Colombo and we look forward to meeting up with them when we arrive from Pakistan,” 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.
“Sean is an accomplished and versatile international player who has experienced numerous World Cup campaigns. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour.”
Pat Cummins missed out on selection due to his back injury.
