Nathan Ellis ruled out of tournament after being named in Australia's T20 World Cup squad

Nathan Ellis to miss BBL knockout due to injury. [Source - AFP]

Australia’s T20 World Cup build-up has taken an unexpected hit with fast bowler Nathan Ellis picking up an injury at a crucial stage of the ongoing BBL season. The setback comes ahead of the important knockout stage in the competition for Hobart Hurricanes’ captain.

Nathan Ellis has been in strong rhythm in recent weeks, making this development a concern beyond just the BBL. While details remain limited, the timing of the injury has raised serious concerns with a big global event around the corner.

For now, both Hobart Hurricanes and Australia are forced into an uncertain bubble. The full details of Ellis’ absence will become clearer soon, but it is already shaping up as a significant challenge for the club and country alike.

Hobart Hurricanes to miss captain Nathan Ellis in BBL knockout against Melbourne Stars

Hobart Hurricanes will head into the BBL Knockout final against Melbourne Stars without their captain and pace spearhead Ellis. The franchise confirmed he sustained an injury during the match against Brisbane Heat, ruling him out of the must win clash.

Nathan toEllis has been central to Hurricanes’ campaign, leading the wicket charts with 14 wickets at an average of 21.28. Trusted in the powerplay, power surge and death overs, his absence leaves a major gap for the Hurricanes’ in both leadership and bowling plans.

Ben McDermott will take over captaincy duties as Hurricanes fight to keep their season alive. A defeat would end their campaign, while a win or even a rain-affected washout could still push them into the Challenger final.

Alarm bells for Australia as Ellis injury clouds T20 World Cup participation

Nathan Ellis’ injury situation is a bigger concern at the international level, with the right-arm pacer now a vital part of Australia’s T20I setup. Known for his control at the death and clever variations, he has become one of the most dependable bowlers in high-pressure situations.

Australia are already managing fitness concerns around key players. Pat Cummins’ participation remains uncertain, Josh Hazlewood missed the entire Test summer due to injury, and Tim David has missed out almost an entire BBL season for the Hurricanes.

With the T20 World Cup set to begin on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, Australia face a growing headache. Mitchell Marsh’s side starts its campaign on February 11 against Ireland, followed by matches against Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Oman in Group B.

Ellis remains central to BBL and World Cup ambitions

This significant development has proved that Nathan Ellis sits at the heart of two major title pushes. Hobart Hurricanes will feel his absence deeply in the Knockout final against Melbourne Stars, which can end their title defense journey this season.

Australia, meanwhile, had already rested Ellis from the upcoming Pakistan T20I series to protect him for the World Cup. With an injury now in play, caution will be paramount as they safeguard one of their most valuable T20 assets.