Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar’s recent comments about Josh Hazlewood missing the Pink Ball Test in Adelaide have sparked a heated exchange between cricketing legends. Gavaskar’s cheeky suggestion that “politics” might be behind Hazlewood’s absence has drawn sharp reactions from former Australian players, further fueling the tension as the two teams gear up for the second Test.

With India aiming to break Australia’s impeccable home record in Day-Night Tests, the war of words has added a layer of drama to the high-stakes series. The controversy arose after India’s resounding 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth, which handed the visitors a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Josh Hazlewood, a key figure in Australia’s bowling attack, has been ruled out of the Adelaide Test due to a side strain. Gavaskar, writing in his Sportstar column, hinted at internal politics affecting Hazlewood’s availability, a claim that didn’t sit well with former Australian cricketers.

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Ex-Australian pacer Ryan Harris dismissed Gavaskar’s remarks outright, calling them “rubbish.” Speaking to The Indian Express, Harris said, “There are no factions. That’s just all garbage. I’ve heard Mr. Gavaskar mention factions, but that doesn’t happen in Australia.”

Aaron Finch, Australia’s former T20 World Cup-winning captain, echoed Harris’s sentiments in an interview with ESPNcricinfo. “It’s not just jabs anymore; Sunny is throwing haymakers. It’s quite funny because, during the first Test, he wasn’t saying things like that.” Finch’s light-hearted response reflected the frustration of the Australian camp at what they consider unfounded allegations.

While Hazlewood’s injury remains a significant setback for the Australians, the off-field exchanges have added an intriguing subplot to the series. Gavaskar’s comments, coupled with the Australian players’ rebuttals, underscore the intensity of the India-Australia rivalry, which often extends beyond the pitch.

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As the teams prepare for the crucial second Test, the focus will undoubtedly shift back to the cricket, but the verbal volleys have ensured that the series is as captivating off the field as it is on it.