Josh Hazlewood has shown promising signs of recovery, edging closer to a potential comeback in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Australian pacer, sidelined from the day-night Test in Adelaide due to a side strain, was the only bowler spotted training at the Adelaide Oval’s centre wicket on Monday, underscoring his determination to return.
Hazlewood engaged in extended practice sessions that mimicked the rigours of a Test match. His focus was on maintaining intensity, cooling down, and returning for additional spells—replicating the workload he would endure during a game. This rigorous preparation is part of his effort to prove fitness ahead of the crucial third Test at the Gabba, starting Saturday.
Selectors face a tough choice if Hazlewood is cleared to play. While he is an integral part of Australia’s bowling attack, Scott Boland, who stepped in for him in Adelaide, delivered impressive figures of 5-105 and made a strong case for retention.
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Speaking to cricket.com.au, Josh Hazlewood explained his focus on recovery and readiness. “It’s about how I pull up in the 24 hours following a session like this,” he said. “Cooling down completely and then going again is key. It’s about ticking those boxes, ensuring the intensity is right, and feeling ready for consecutive spells.”
🚨 Josh Hazlewood Press Conference:
“It’s about execution on the day — how he’s approaching the game. We’ve been playing against each other for so long. So it’s always the small things that matter on the day” — on bowling to #ViratKohli.
The Australian pacer also sets up the… pic.twitter.com/RJnDsAaf1E
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) December 9, 2024
Reflecting on his recurring side injuries, Josh Hazlewood admitted that while they’ve been frustrating, they’ve also taught him to recognize early warning signs. “It’s not your typical side strain,” he noted. “I’ve dealt with these issues for years, and while they’ve kept me off the field at times, they’ve also helped me understand the signals and manage the condition better.”
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He revealed that if the Adelaide Test had been the last of the summer, he might have taken a risk and played. “I know this area and its pain well, and I can gauge what I can push through,” he added.
Hazlewood’s potential return for the Gabba Test will be a significant boost for Australia. However, with Boland’s strong performance, selectors face a dilemma that reflects the depth of Australia’s bowling resources. Either way, the team appears well-prepared for the challenges ahead in this tightly contested series.
