Melbourne, 15 November (Daily Kiran). Australia’s preparations for the Ashes have taken another major hit. After regular captain Pat Cummins was ruled out, senior fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has now been sidelined from the first Test in Perth. What was initially considered a minor issue at the start of the week has turned into a serious setback.
A second scan conducted on Friday confirmed a hamstring strain. The initial scan on Wednesday had shown no muscle damage, but according to Cricket Australia, early scans can often underestimate low-grade injuries. As a result, Hazlewood will not travel to Perth.
Michael Neser has been added to the squad for the opening Test. The Queensland pacer has been brought in as cover not only for Hazlewood but also for Sean Abbott, who is dealing with a hamstring injury sustained during a Shield match between New South Wales and Victoria.
Neser, who made his Test debut in the 2021 Ashes in Adelaide and has played two Tests so far, may become crucial in filling the sudden gap in Australia’s pace attack.
Australia’s fast-bowling unit is currently heavily hit by injuries. Sean Abbott, Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, Spencer Johnson, and the Cummins–Hazlewood duo are all sidelined for various reasons. With this, 31-year-old Brendan Doggett has emerged as a strong contender for a debut. Doggett recently recovered from a minor hamstring injury and has impressed selectors with 13 Shield wickets this season at an average of 14.69.
Meanwhile, captain Pat Cummins is continuing his rehabilitation at the SCG and is aiming to regain fitness ahead of the second Ashes Test starting 4 December at the Gabba.
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