Post by : Maya Rahman

Australia is grappling with a tough setback as fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the opening Ashes Test against England due to a hamstring injury. This comes as an additional blow, with captain Pat Cummins also absent for this crucial match in Perth.

Hazlewood experienced discomfort during a domestic fixture at the Sydney Cricket Ground Wednesday. Although initial scans suggested no severe muscle strain, further examinations revealed a legitimate hamstring issue requiring rest. Cricket Australia indicated that early imaging often doesn't detect minor muscle injuries.

In light of Hazlewood's exclusion, Cricket Australia confirmed that all-rounder Michael Neser will step in to fill the void. Neser has previously played in two Test matches for Australia, debuting in December 2021 against England and taking seven wickets in total. His extensive domestic cricket experience positions him as a dependable alternative capable of delivering long spells.

The situation also presents an opportunity for 31-year-old Brendan Doggett, who has recently excelled in domestic competitions, to potentially make his Test debut. Given both Cummins and Hazlewood's absences, selectors may consider Doggett for the fast-bowling lineup in Perth, especially as the conditions typically favor pace bowlers.

Amidst Australia’s injury woes, England has received a boost with fast bowler Mark Wood being cleared of any hamstring issues after precautionary scans. Wood had left the field during an Ashes warm-up match due to hamstring stiffness, raising concerns as he had recently recovered from a knee injury. However, the scans revealed no damage, and he will return to regular training.

Mark Wood was instrumental for England in the 2021-22 Ashes series with 17 wickets to his name and is anticipated to play a key role again, bolstered by Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue. Although Wood won’t participate in the last warm-up match at Lilac Hill Park, he is on track to be available for the first Test in Perth on November 21.

With the first Ashes Test on the horizon, Australia must navigate through injury challenges while England feels bolstered by Wood’s recovery. As both teams prepare for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive match, the stakes for this five-Test series could not be higher.

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