Australia’s loss to India in the T20 World Cup has left fast bowler Josh Hazlewood convinced that there is no need for significant changes to the team’s ageing squad. Despite the defeat putting Australia in a precarious position, a victory by Afghanistan ultimately sealed their fate in missing out on the semi-finals. Looking ahead to the next World Cup in 2026, only one player from the current squad, Cameron Green, will still be under 30 years old.
While there may be a few changes, Hazlewood believes that the core of the team will remain intact and that there will be a gradual transition rather than a drastic overhaul. He emphasizes that there are talented players in the squad and on the bench who can contribute to the team’s success in the future. However, one area that needs significant improvement is Australia’s fielding performance in tournaments like this one.
Hazlewood acknowledges that Australia’s fielding has been subpar in recent games, with multiple dropped catches proving costly in crucial moments. He highlights the challenges of maintaining fielding standards during tournaments like this one, where there is limited time for practice between matches. Hazlewood mentions that factors like windy conditions in St Lucia may have played a role in Australia’s fielding struggles but also stresses the importance of accountability and continuous improvement in this aspect of the game.
Overall, Hazlewood believes that Australia has what it takes to bounce back from their loss to India and continue performing well on an international stage. With talent and determination on their side, he is confident that they can make it back into contention for future championship titles.
