Australia’s Josh Hazlewood bowled just one over on Day 4 of the third Test at the Gabba before being pulled from the attack, raising concerns about his fitness. Cricket Australia later confirmed Hazlewood experienced “calf awareness” during the morning warm-up and was sent for scans to assess the injury. His absence added to Australia’s worries, as he had earlier claimed the crucial wicket of Virat Kohli on Day 3.
Hazlewood returned for the Gabba Test after missing the Adelaide fixture due to a side strain, though Australia maintained he was fit for this match. However, his limited involvement sparked debate about whether he should have been selected.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan, speaking on commentary, was unconvinced Hazlewood could bowl much further. “He looks ginger, like he’s really struggling. Mitchell Marsh can step in and bowl a few, but I don’t think Hazlewood will be able to continue.”
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Former Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin also questioned the decision to play Hazlewood. “I’m just not quite sure about this call. Was Hazlewood fully fit? Andrew McDonald seems to be lining up Scott Boland for Melbourne,” Haddin suggested.
Josh Hazlewood is off for scans after reporting ‘calf awareness’ in this morning’s warm up #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Gkr5qLQcFV
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 17, 2024
Kerry O’Keeffe weighed in on the team’s strategy, noting Australia’s horses-for-courses approach. “I think the plan was for Hazlewood to play here and skip Melbourne because the MCG hasn’t suited him in the past. Boland, who thrives at the MCG, would likely come in for that Test, and Starc might rest for Sydney.”
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O’Keeffe added, “Boland’s numbers at the MCG are irresistible, and this situation could solidify that plan. Still, questions will be asked about whether Hazlewood was fully fit going into this game.”
With Hazlewood’s participation now in doubt, Australia may need to rethink their pace attack for the upcoming Tests. Scott Boland, with his stellar MCG record, appears the most logical replacement, but concerns remain over Australia’s gamble with Hazlewood’s fitness.
