Australia's selectors are poised to make critical decisions regarding the composition of their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with particular attention focused on the fitness of key players Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Tim David. Despite concerns surrounding injuries, all three are expected to be named in the provisional 15-man squad.

Cummins' fitness is under close scrutiny after he sustained a lumbar stress injury in July and has only played one international match since then. He briefly returned for the Adelaide Test before being rested again. According to head coach Andrew McDonald, Cummins will undergo another back scan in four weeks to determine his readiness for the World Cup. Despite the uncertainty, McDonald has confirmed that Cummins will be included in the provisional squad ahead of the ICC's January 2 deadline. This strategy provides flexibility, allowing the team valuable recovery time without sacrificing experience, especially with Australia's first World Cup match scheduled for February 11.

Hazlewood, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury and Achilles soreness, has made steady progress in his recovery. He has resumed running, and team management is optimistic about his availability. McDonald indicated that Hazlewood is "returning to bowl" and "should be right in terms of possible timeframes". His expected return would significantly strengthen Australia's pace attack.

Tim David's participation was recently jeopardized when he sustained a grade two right hamstring strain during a Big Bash League (BBL) match on Boxing Day, ruling him out for the remainder of the BBL season. However, his rehabilitation timeline suggests he should be available for selection when the World Cup begins in early February. McDonald expressed confidence in David's recovery, stating, "I think the timeframe will be kind on TD as well. So he should be available no matter what that injury is".

Australia's group-stage schedule, with their opening match against Ireland on February 11, could ease the pressure on returning players, allowing extra recovery time, particularly for David. Following the match against Ireland, they will face Zimbabwe before a match against Sri Lanka on February 16.

The provisional squad, which must be submitted before the ICC deadline on January 2, may still change depending on BBL form or any fresh injury concerns. Australia is also scheduled to play three T20Is in Pakistan in late January as part of their preparations.

The inclusion of Cummins, Hazlewood, and David in the provisional squad reflects Australia's broader strategy of backing experience while carefully monitoring risk. Final decisions on their availability will be made closer to the World Cup opener. The trio is considered core to Australia's bid for a second consecutive T20 World title.