
Australia will begin their 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup A game without one of the most destructive batsmen, Captain Mitchell Marsh confirm Tim David Will miss the first group match Ireland Wednesday, February 11th. Marsh said the decision was made with the long-term in mind as the team manages David’s recovery from a recent hamstring injury.
Mitchell Marsh hints Tim David will return for upcoming games
Although David looked fluent and powerful during a training session in Colombo, the Australian brain trust chose caution over urgency. The defending champions are keen to ensure their top finisher is fully fit as the game enters the decisive stages rather than risk an early relapse. Marsh addressed the media on the eve of the game and made it clear that David’s absence was temporary.
“We’ll definitely see him get back into contention in the next few games,” The skipper said at the pre-match press conference, reassuring fans who were eager to see the six-wicket star in action.
Marsh explained that while David was close to game-ready, medical staff advised against pushing him too early. The batsman has done most of the work in training but is now taking it easy to ensure he is 100 per cent when Australia needs him most. It is worth noting that David has not played an official match since suffering a hamstring strain while playing for the Hobart Hurricanes in a BBL game on Boxing Day last year. The injury forced him to miss Australia’s T20 series in Pakistan, giving him time to focus on recovery.
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The 29-year-old has impressed behind the scenes since joining Sri Lanka’s World Cup squad last week. He participated in nearly every training session except for one optional at-bat and completed several running and defensive drills. David was even seen sprinting between the wickets in full kit on Tuesday, a sign that his recovery is going well.
Australia’s injury concerns linger
David is not the only health issue plaguing the Australian camp. The 2021 Championship side have already lost two senior fast bowlers; Pat Cummins Ruled out due to back injury Josh Hazlewood Missed due to Achilles tendon problem. However, as Marsh confirmed, the team got a boost Nathan Ellis Has fully recovered from a hamstring injury and can lead the speed attack. leg spinner Adam Zampa It has also been cleared after overcoming a minor groin issue.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2026: Ricky Ponting lays out roadmap for Babar Azam’s return to form







