Josh Hazlewood has been cleared of injury after scans on his right hamstring showed no muscle strain, easing concerns ahead of Australia’s first Test in Perth. The fast bowler had reported tightness during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield clash with Victoria at the SCG and left the field before lunch on day three. Cricket Australia confirmed that the scans were precautionary and Hazlewood will continue training as planned.
However, fellow Test squad member Sean Abbott has been ruled out of the opening Test after scans revealed a moderate-grade strain in his left hamstring. His recovery timeline will be determined in the coming weeks. Abbott left the field during the same session as Hazlewood and did not return to bowl.
Australia captain Pat Cummins, who is himself unavailable for the Perth Test due to a back injury, said both bowlers underwent scans during the afternoon. He noted Hazlewood appeared upbeat after his assessment, while Abbott’s situation was more concerning. Cummins added that with the Test series just a week away, the team was taking a cautious approach to player fitness.
Hazlewood had bowled 27 overs in the match, claiming Sam Harper’s wicket in the morning, while Abbott impressed with figures of 4 for 18. Both had a heavy workload over three consecutive days after NSW’s short first innings left little rest for the bowlers.
With Cummins sidelined and Abbott out, Australia’s pace depth will be tested. Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon are expected to feature, while Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser are possible reinforcements. Cummins praised Doggett’s recent form, saying he’s well-placed to challenge for a spot in the upcoming Test.
Leave a Reply