In what has come as a copping blow to Australia Cricket, premier fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the opening Ashes Test at Optus Stadium, Perth. With the first Ashes Test less than a week away, Australia will be without the services of Hazlewood, who will miss the start of the biggest Test series due to a hamstring injury. Pat Cummins already remains out of contention as Australia scramble for options.
Josh Hazlewood ruled out of 1st Ashes Test
Australia’s build up to the Ashes has gone from uneasy to alarming in a matter of days. Hazlewood was initially cleared of major damage after scans during New South Wales’ Shield fixture in Melbourne, which briefly raised hopes that he would pull up in time.
But the veteran quick reported lingering tightness across the next 48 hours, and Cricket Australia’s (CA) medical team advised a more cautious approach. Their statement made it clear that early scans can sometimes mask low-grade muscle damage, which forced them to rule him out before the squad travels to Perth.
The timing could hardly be worse. Pat Cummins is already ruled out as he works back from a back issue, Sean Abbott is also been scratched, and Australia suddenly find themselves heading into Perth with only one fully fit frontline pacer in Mitchell Starc. Scott Boland had already been identified as the first cab off the rank if Cummins missed out, and now Brendan Doggett has emerged as a genuine contender for a debut. Doggett has been one of the sharpest red-ball bowlers in the country since returning from his own hamstring injury, grabbing two five-wicket hauls and hitting consistent lengths for South Australia.
Selectors have also rushed Michael Neser into the squad to provide cover, but they remain one bowler short with both Hazlewood and Abbott staying home. There is a live possibility that Australia pick both Cameron Green and Beau Webster to deepen their seam options and reduce the workload on Starc and Boland over five days on what is usually a demanding Perth surface.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
India squad for T20 World Cup: Shubman Gill's form big concern, Rinku vs Washi likely
Top Stories
