Hazlewood Ruled Out of First Ashes Test
Australia’s fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the opening Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston due to a side strain. The 32-year-old, a key part of Australia’s pace attack, sustained the injury during the World Test Championship (WTC) final against India. Scans confirmed lingering discomfort, forcing team management to sideline him as a precaution.
Coach Andrew McDonald said: “Josh has been managing this niggle, but recovery hasn’t progressed as expected. With a long series ahead, we’re prioritizing his long-term fitness.”
Who Will Replace Hazlewood?
Hazlewood’s absence leaves a critical gap in Australia’s pace trio alongside Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. The frontrunner to replace him is Scott Boland, who starred in the 2021-22 Ashes with his relentless accuracy. Alternatively, Michael Neser—in strong county cricket form—could debut, offering swing and seam movement.
Other options:
– Cameron Green (medium-pace all-rounder)
– Sean Abbott (if Australia seeks extra pace depth)
England’s Advantage Without Hazlewood?
Hazlewood’s record against England (57 wickets in 15 Tests) makes his absence significant. His disciplined line-and-length bowling has historically troubled England’s batters. Without him, England’s ‘Bazball’ approach—aggressive batting under Stokes and McCullum—could exploit Australia’s reshuffled attack.
Hazlewood’s Ashes Legacy & Recovery Timeline
Hazlewood missed the 2019 Ashes due to injury, which impacted Australia’s campaign. This time, team medics hope he’ll return for the Lord’s Test (June 28). Side strains are unpredictable, so his recovery will be closely monitored.
Key Takeaways
- Hazlewood’s absence tests Australia’s pace depth.
- Boland or Neser must step up to counter England’s aggressive batting.
- England may gain momentum if Australia’s attack falters early.
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