Melbourne, 29 December (H.S.): Australia captain Pat Cummins, pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood, and explosive middle-order batter Tim David appear set for inclusion in the nation's provisional 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, notwithstanding lingering injury concerns that have clouded their preparations.

Chief coach Andrew McDonald confirmed on Monday that Cummins would feature in the squad announcement ahead of the ICC's January 2 deadline, though a final fitness verdict awaits a scan in four weeks' time. The trio's potential participation underscores Australia's calculated risk-taking ahead of the tournament opener on February 11 against Ireland, followed by Zimbabwe and a February 16 clash with Sri Lanka.

Pat Cummins has played just one international match—a stellar bowling display in the Adelaide Test against England—since sustaining a lumbar stress injury in July, prompting Cricket Australia to rest him for the entire Ashes series as a precaution.

McDonald revealed that the 32-year-old skipper, absent from T20Is since the previous Caribbean World Cup, receives a provisional nod pending medical clearance: Pat will have a scan in four weeks, which will give us clarity on his World Cup status. He'll be named in the squad, and then we'll decide based on the medical report. Team management prioritizes avoiding any jeopardy to his long-term availability.

Josh Hazlewood, who dazzled in the T20 series against India this season before hamstring and Achilles setbacks sidelined him through the Ashes, has resumed bowling and remains on track for selection. McDonald expressed optimism about the veteran's timeline, noting his readiness to reclaim a spot in the pace attack that propelled Australia to past triumphs.

Middle-order powerhouse Tim David sustained a hamstring tweak during Big Bash League action on Boxing Day, with a Monday scan distinguishing it from a prior two-month IPL absence caused by a similar issue. McDonald conveyed confidence: We'll know post-scan if it's muscular or tendinous, but either way, the timeframe suits Tim, and he'll be available for the World Cup. David's extended preparation window benefits from Australia's group fixtures, allowing recovery leeway.

Changes to the provisional squad could arise from Big Bash League performances or further injuries, with finalization imminent before the tournament. Australia schedules three T20Is in Pakistan at January's end, potentially forcing World Cup-bound players to skip BBL finals for optimal conditioning.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar