Josh Hazlewood: Australia’s hopes for a smooth Test series against India took a massive hit as star paceman Josh Hazlewood suffered a calf strain during warm-ups on Day 4 of the third NRMA Insurance Test at the Gabba. This injury comes as a major blow, with Hazlewood now all but certain to miss the remainder of the Border Gavaskar Trophy series.
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Josh Hazlewood Likely Out for Series After Calf Strain: Australia Faces Major Bowling Setback
Hazlewood’s Return Cut Short
Australia’s decision to bring back Josh Hazlewood after his earlier side strain has backfired spectacularly. Having shown signs of recovery in Brisbane, Hazlewood managed just one over on the fourth morning before being forced off the field. Scans later revealed a right calf strain, making his participation in the rest of the series highly unlikely.
The setback began during Tuesday’s pre game warm ups, where Hazlewood appeared to be struggling. His performance reflected his discomfort, with his first delivery being uncharacteristically short, wide, and clocking only 128kph, far from his usual pace.
Australia’s Depleted Bowling Attack
Captain Pat Cummins now finds himself short of one of his most trusted pace options. Hazlewood bowled a total of six overs in India’s innings, including the prized dismissal of Virat Kohli on Day 3. However, his inability to complete his spells on Day 4 highlighted Australia’s ongoing struggle to keep their bowling attack fit and firing.
This injury compounds Australia’s bowling woes, as Hazlewood’s absence was already felt in the second Test, where he missed out due to a side strain.
Scott Boland in the Mix?
Scott Boland, who has proven his credentials in the past, is now a likely contender to step in for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Boland previously impressed when Hazlewood missed the Adelaide Test, taking five wickets in a remarkable performance.
Australia will undoubtedly look to Boland’s accuracy and consistency to stabilize their bowling attack as they prepare for the crucial fourth Test.
A Worrying Pattern for Hazlewood
This isn’t the first time Hazlewood has struggled with a calf injury. He faced a similar issue back in August before Australia’s tour of the UK, which forced him to miss the T20 series against Scotland. While he did recover in time to feature against England, his recurring injuries raise concerns over his long term fitness and workload management.
Hazlewood, known for his precision and ability to extract bounce, remains a vital cog in Australia’s pace arsenal. His absence could prove decisive as Australia faces a high performing Indian side in a tightly contested series.
Series So Far and Upcoming Matches
The ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy has been a rollercoaster:
- First Test: India dominated, winning by 295 runs.
- Second Test: Australia bounced back with a convincing 10-wicket victory.
- Third Test: (In Progress) Hazlewood’s injury adds fresh challenges for Australia’s bowling depth.
Remaining Fixtures:
- Fourth Test: December 26-30, MCG, Melbourne
- Fifth Test: January 3-7, SCG, Sydney
Josh Hazlewood’s untimely injury not only weakens Australia’s bowling attack but also leaves the selectors scrambling for a suitable replacement. With Scott Boland expected to step up, all eyes will be on Australia’s ability to adapt under pressure in the remaining Tests.
As the Border Gavaskar Trophy hangs in the balance, Hazlewood’s absence could become a defining moment in this closely fought series.
FAQs
What is the Border Gavaskar Trophy?
The Border–Gavaskar Trophy (BGT)[3] is an International Test cricket trophy played between India and Australia. The series is named after distinguished former captains, Australia’s Allan Border and India’s Sunil Gavaskar. It is played via Test series scheduled using International Cricket Council’s Future Tours Programme.
