Published on: Feb 18, 2026 5:49 pm IST|Updated on: Feb 18, 2026 5:51 pm IST
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has already delivered thrilling contests, upsets, and standout performances. Yet, alongside the excitement, the tournament has also been marred by injuries to key players across different teams. These setbacks have forced squads to rethink strategies and call up replacements, reshaping the dynamics of the competition.
As the action of the T20 World Cup 2026 heads towards the Super 8s stage, here’s a detailed look at the players who have been ruled out so far and won’t be featuring further in the tournament.
Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor suffered a groin injury during Zimbabwe’s clash against Oman. His absence is a major blow, given his experience and ability to anchor innings under pressure. Also, the fact that Zimbabwe kicked out Australia to take the Super 8s berth meant that the team moved quickly to bring in Ben Curran as his replacement. Curran, a top-order batter, adds depth to the batting unit, but filling Taylor’s shoes will be no easy task.
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Sri Lanka’s campaign took a huge hit when star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga sustained a hamstring injury in the game against Ireland. Hasaranga’s leg-spin and handy batting down the order make him one of the most valuable assets in T20 cricket. His absence leaves a void in both departments. Sri Lanka have drafted Dushan Hemantha, a promising leg-spinner, as a replacement. While Hemantha brings talent, the team will sorely miss Hasaranga’s match-winning experience.
Italy’s inspirational captain Wayne Madsen was ruled out after dislocating his shoulder during a fielding attempt in their opening game against Scotland. For an emerging cricketing nation like Italy, losing their leader so early is a massive setback. Madsen’s leadership and batting prowess were central to Italy’s hopes of making an impression on the global stage. Although Italy is left with only a solitary game against the West Indies, Madsen must be kicking himself for not having a go with the bat even once in his maiden T20 World Cup appearance.
New Zealand’s versatile all-rounder Michael Bracewell re-injured his calf, an issue he was already carrying into the tournament. Despite his determination to play through the pain, the recurrence forced him out of the World Cup. Bracewell’s absence deprives New Zealand of a reliable lower-order batter and a handy off-spinner. The selectors have named Cole McConchie as his replacement. McConchie offers quirky leg spins and can contribute with the bat if needed, but New Zealand will miss Bracewell’s ability to change games with both bat and ball.
Sri Lanka’s pace attack suffered another blow when young speedster Matheesha Pathirana limped off with a calf strain during the high-voltage clash against Australia. Pathirana, often compared to Lasith Malinga for his slingy action, has been a rising star in T20 cricket. His ability to bowl yorkers at the death made him a crucial weapon. Losing him mid-tournament forces Sri Lanka to reshuffle their bowling plans, especially now when the team is marching into the Super 8s.
Namibia’s spirited campaign was dented when pacer Ben Shikongo sustained a right thigh injury in the match against India on February 12. Shikongo’s pace and aggression had been vital for Namibia’s bowling unit. The team has called up Alex Volschenk as his replacement. While Volschenk brings enthusiasm, Namibia will miss Shikongo’s ability to strike early and unsettle top-order batters.
Injuries are an inevitable part of cricket, especially in high-intensity tournaments like the T20 World Cup. However, the timing and nature of these setbacks have significantly influenced team strategies in 2026.
Tags: T20 World Cup 2026