Hazlewood Explains Fraser-McGurk and Smith's Omissions from Australia's T20 World Cup Squad

Hazlewood Explains Omissions of Fraser-McGurk and Smith from Australia's T20 World Cup Squad

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has shed light on the absence of young batter Jake Fraser-McGurk and veteran Steve Smith from the 15-player squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Fraser-McGurk has impressed in his debut IPL season with the Delhi Capitals, showcasing explosive batting at the top of the order. Despite his strong form, he couldn't find a place in the squad. Hazlewood believes the established top order, featuring experienced players like Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, and David Warner, made it difficult for the youngster to break in.

"The way he goes about it is quite special, just the ball striking. Where do you fit him in? It's so tough to fit into that top order with what we've got there with experience with Travis [Head], Mitch [Marsh] and Davey [Warner] in the top three, and then the middle order's pretty good as well," Hazlewood said.

However, Hazlewood remains optimistic about Fraser-McGurk's future, stating, "He'll definitely get his time. He's only young. He'll be in the team sooner rather than later, I think."

Regarding Smith's omission, Hazlewood acknowledged his valuable batting skills, particularly in spin-friendly conditions, and his leadership experience. He highlighted Smith's ability to rebuild innings after a bad start and his potential to bat at the top of the order.

"Probably someone like Marshy will miss him being captain and just having another player on the field like Smudge [Smith] who you can just turn to at any time and get his advice," Hazlewood said.

"Obviously his batting and fielding as well. The conditions potentially could have suited his game and it's always like picking up the pieces from a bad start is his job, but I think the way we've seen him bat for the sixers [in the BBL], there's a spot at the top as well, but again, you just can't squeeze everyone in," Hazlewood added.

Australia will begin their T20 World Cup campaign on June 6 against Oman in Barbados. They are placed in Group B alongside England, Namibia, Oman, and Scotland.