Post by : Rameen Ariff

Australia’s pace bowler Josh Hazlewood has suffered a fresh injury setback, putting his participation in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide in doubt. Hazlewood, who has been recovering from a hamstring strain, reported soreness in his Achilles, delaying his return to full training, Cricket Australia confirmed on Friday.

The fast bowler missed both the first Ashes Test in Perth and the ongoing second Test in Brisbane. He had returned to bowling in the nets, raising hopes for a comeback, but the new low-grade Achilles issue means he will now need additional rest before resuming running and bowling next week.

Regular Australian captain Pat Cummins also missed the first two Tests due to a back injury, but he remains a strong contender to play in the Adelaide match, which begins on December 17. Australia fielded a relatively inexperienced pace attack at the Gabba in Brisbane, featuring Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett, Michael Neser, and veteran Mitchell Starc, who at 35 continues to lead the attack.

With Australia currently leading the five-Test Ashes series 1-0, Hazlewood’s fitness will be closely watched as selectors weigh options for the crucial third Test. His absence could place additional responsibility on the younger bowlers and Starc, making team selection and strategy critical ahead of the Adelaide clash.

This latest development highlights the challenges Australia faces in managing injuries to key players while maintaining momentum in the Ashes, as fans and cricket analysts closely follow Hazlewood’s recovery and the team’s plans for the remainder of the series.

#Sports News