Delhi: Australian team chief selector Tony Dodemide has defended the decision to exclude star fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. After Australia’s exit from the tournament in the group stage, questions were raised on this decision, because the team was considered a strong contender for the title.

Selector’s side on being out of T20 World Cup

Dodemide clarified that the decision was to the circumstances and the timing of the program, and not to the commitment of the players. According to him, if the order of T20 World Cup and IPL had been reversed, both the fast bowlers would have left the league and been available for the national team. He said that the team management has no doubt about the players’ desire to play for the country.

Injury and fitness became the reason for absence

Hazlewood has been struggling with heel and calf problems for a long time, which first arose after a hamstring injury. Cummins had distanced himself from cricket after the Ashes series to avoid back pressure (lumbar stress). Both the players were rested keeping the T20 World Cup in mind, but could not be included in the final team due to fitness reasons. However, current indications suggest that both are likely to be fit for the upcoming IPL.

Rain changed the equation, Australia out

Weather also played an important role in Australia’s exit. The match between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Pallekele was abandoned due to rain, giving Zimbabwe a place in the Super Eight stage and Australia’s journey ending there.

The team will come out to save honor in the final match

The Australian team led by Mitchell Marsh will now play its final group match against Oman in Pallekele on 20 February. The team will try to save its honor by finishing the tournament with a win.

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