Josh Hazlewood Baffled by T20 World Cup Format Shift

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood expressed confusion over the T20 World Cup's new format. Despite Australia's dominating run rate, it's irrelevant in the Super 8 stage. Hazlewood praised teammate Adam Zampa for his consistent performance, emphasizing his crucial role in the team's success.

In a candid post-match media interaction, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood voiced his bewilderment over the revised T20 World Cup format. Australia's impressive net run-rate, amassed through three decisive victories, holds no significance as they advance to the Super 8 stage.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) introduced a new format for this year's 20-team tournament, organizing the competition into four groups of five. Only two teams from each group transition to the Super 8 stage, subsequently forming two groups of four to determine the semifinalists.

Reflecting on Tuesday's nine-wicket triumph over Namibia, which secured Australia's place in the Super 8 with a run rate of +3.580, Hazlewood remarked, ''Yeah, it's a little bit strange that it doesn't really, it doesn't go through the tournament.” He also lauded spinner Adam Zampa for his remarkable performance, highlighting his integral role within the team. Zampa's four-wicket haul against Namibia brings his tournament total to eight, reinforcing his status as a key player in Australia's cricket ensemble.