Pat Cummins to Miss Early T20 World Cup Matches for Australia

• Australia faces a major setback as star pacer Pat Cummins is set to miss initial group stage matches of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 due to a back issue.
• Chief Selector George Bailey confirmed Cummins' absence, stating he might join the squad around the third or fourth match.
• Josh Hazlewood and Tim David, also recovering from injuries, are expected to be fit before the tournament begins.
• Cummins will miss Australia's opening matches against Ireland (February 11) and Zimbabwe (February 13) in Colombo.
• The team hopes Cummins will be available for the crucial match against Sri Lanka on February 16 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

Why It Matters: Pat Cummins' injury sidelines him for Australia's early T20 World Cup 2026 matches, impacting their campaign.