
Australia they will throw ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign without one of the most devastating blows with the captain Mitchell Marsh confirms it Tim David the opposite group will miss the opening Ireland Wednesday, February 11. Marsh said the decision was made with the long-term in mind as the team manages David’s return from a recent injury.
Mitchell Marsh hints that Tim David will be back in the coming games
Despite David looking fluent and strong in training in Colombo, Australia’s think tank opted for caution rather than urgency. The reigning champions will want to ensure their first finalists are fully fit when they reach the tournament’s crucial stages, rather than risk an early repeat. Addressing the press on the eve of the match, Marsh announced that David’s absence was temporary.
“We’ll definitely see him back in contention in the next few games.” The skipper said during the pre-match press conference, reassuring fans eager to see the six-hitting star in action.
Marsh explained that while David is close to being ready for the match, medical staff do not recommend pushing him too soon. The all-rounder has ticked most boxes in training but is being brought back to ensure he is at 100 per cent when Australia need him most. It should be noted that David has not played a competitive match since Boxing Day last year when he represented the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL. The injury forced him to miss Australia’s T20 series in Pakistan, giving him time to focus solely on rehabilitation.
Also READ: Ricky Ponting explains why Australia will reach the semi-finals of the 2026 T20 World Cup
The 29-year-old has impressed behind the scenes since joining the World Cup squad in Sri Lanka last week. He batted in almost every practice except for one optional scrimmage and completed several running and throwing drills. On Tuesday, David was even seen running between the wickets in full kit, a sign that his recovery is going smoothly.
Injury concerns continue for Australia
David is not the only fitness problem plaguing the Australian camp. The 2021 champions are now without two big fast bowlers Pat Cummins was sidelined due to a back injury and Josh Hazlewood He was sidelined with an Achilles issue. However, as Marsh confirmed, there was a boost for the side Nathan Ellis The hamstring niggle is fully recovered and ready to lead the pace attack. Leg spinner Adam Zampa also cleaned up after removing the minor groin problem.
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Ricky Ponting lays out roadmap for Babar Azam’s return to form

