NEW DELHI: Australian star pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to miss the start of IPL 2026, extending what has already been a long break from cricket due to injury.
According to a report from Codesports.com, the Aussie hasn’t played in months, and fans will have to wait a bit longer to see him back in action.
At the same time, several Australian players are facing tough decisions about playing in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) amid security concerns.
Hazlewood and Cummins still recovering
Josh Hazlewood has been dealing with hamstring and Achilles issues, and his return keeps getting delayed. He is now expected to miss at least the first two matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, meaning he may not play until mid-April.
By then, it would have been nearly five months since his last game.
A report from TimesofIndia.com understands that fellow Australian pacer Pat Cummins is also recovering from a back injury. And there is still no definitive date as to when he will be joining Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament.
Both players missed most of the home season and were unavailable for Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign. Officials insist their absence was about fitness timing, not choosing IPL over international duty.
Cricket Australia is being extra careful with both players, especially with a packed schedule ahead that includes many Test matches and a World Cup.
Aussie players weigh PSL risks
While some Australians are preparing for the IPL, others like Steve Smith, David Warner, and Glenn Maxwell are expected to feature in the PSL. However, rising tensions in the region are causing concern.
Players are being warned about safety issues, including ongoing conflicts and travel risks.
One match in Peshawar is particularly worrying, as the area is currently labelled “do not travel” by the Australian government.
To ease fears, the Pakistan Cricket Board has even suggested using a private jet to evacuate players if necessary.
