Australia suffered a major setback ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to begin on February 7. With Pat Cummins ruled out of the game with a back injury, selectors have included Ben Devasius in the squad, while it has also been confirmed that Steve Smith will not take part in the campaign.

Matthew Renshaw has been listed as Matt Short’s replacement. Renshaw made his debut in the first T20I against Pakistan two days ago. Meanwhile, Steve Smith has been left out despite calls for him to join after an impressive cameo for the Sydney Sixers during the Big Bash League season.

Pat Cummins ruled out of T20 World Cup; Ben Dwarshuis named successor

Australia selector Tony Dodemyde says Pat Cummins needs more time to recover from a back injury. Ben Dwarshuis’ left-arm speed and off-scoring ability add versatility, Dodemaid said.

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“With Pat needing more time to recover from a back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who provides a left-arm speed option as well as dynamic fielding and back-order batting,” Dodemyde said.

“We believe his ability to swing the ball with good rhythm and clever changes will be a perfect fit for the conditions we expect and the overall structure of the team.

Matthew Renshaw replaces Matt Short in World Cup squad

Tony Dodmed said Matthew Renshaw has earned his spot with recent performances across all formats. Dodemyde said that with the top order set and conditions expected to be conducive to spin in Sri Lanka, Renshaw has added stability to the middle order.

“Matt (Renshaw) has impressed in all competitions recently, including playing multiple roles in white-ball games for Australia, Queensland Bulls and Brisbane Heat.

“With the top order confirmed in Sri Lanka’s group stage and spin tough conditions, we also see Matt providing additional middle-order support with Tim David completing his planned return in the early stages of the tournament.

“Being a left-hander, he (Renshaw) also provides a point of difference to the middle-order batting.”

Australia T20 World Cup updated squad:

Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Devasius, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kooneman, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

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