The Ashes: Australia Hit by Blow as Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out Ahead of Third Test

Brisbane: Australia has received a major setback ahead of the third Test against England in the Ashes series. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the remaining three matches of the five-Test series due to hamstring and ankle injuries. However, captain Pat Cummins is set to return after recovering from a back issue.

The third Test begins on 17 December at Adelaide, and Australia currently leads the series 2-0. Hazlewood had already missed the first two Tests in Perth and Brisbane, and hopes of his mid-series return have now been dashed. Australia’s coach, Andrew McDonald, confirmed that Hazlewood will now focus on preparing for the T20 World Cup early next year.

“Hazlewood will miss the rest of the Ashes, but we are focusing on his World Cup preparation, which is crucial for us,” McDonald said. “It’s genuinely disappointing that he couldn’t participate in this series. We had anticipated a major role for him here, and this is an unforeseen setback.”

Hazlewood, 76-Test veteran, has taken 295 wickets in his career. His absence will be felt, but Australia remains optimistic with the likes of Pat Cummins returning.

Pat Cummins Set for Comeback
Pat Cummins is expected to make his return in the third Test at Adelaide. The 32-year-old fast bowler missed the first two matches due to back issues. In his absence, Steve Smith led the Australian side. Cummins has been undergoing rigorous practice at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field and looks set to resume his captaincy for the third Test.

“We believe Cummins will be fully ready. His training has been excellent, and he is in good shape to face the challenges at Adelaide,” McDonald added.

Looking ahead, the fourth Test will be held at Melbourne Cricket Ground from Boxing Day (26 December), while Sydney will host the fifth Test from 4 January. England has not won a Test in Australia since the 2010-11 series, adding extra pressure for the visitors.