Australia have received a major boost ahead of the Ashes as head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Josh Hazlewood has not been ruled out of the series. Contrary to reports suggesting the pacer would miss the entire contest, McDonald insisted Hazlewood is expected to be “available at some point.”
Hazlewood to Miss Brisbane Test but Will Travel for Rehab
Hazlewood injured his hamstring during the Sheffield Shield and was unavailable for the opening Test in Perth, which Australia won comfortably by eight wickets. He will also miss the second Test at the Gabba on December 4.
However, McDonald revealed that Hazlewood will still travel with the squad and continue his rehabilitation under the team’s medical staff.
“He’s working through the first week of his rehab,” McDonald said.
He added that a clearer return timeline would be shared once Hazlewood progresses further, but stressed that the pacer is expected to feature later in the series.
New-Look Attack Stepped Up in Perth
With Hazlewood out and Pat Cummins also sidelined due to a back stress injury, Australia fielded a new-look attack in Perth. Debutant Brendan Doggett, along with Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Cameron Green, made an impressive impact.
Starc led from the front, while Boland and Doggett combined for nine wickets—helping Australia secure an early lead in the Ashes.
Positive Signs for Cummins’ Return
McDonald also offered an encouraging update on captain Pat Cummins. The fast bowler has been seen bowling regularly in the nets and appears close to full fitness.
Still, the final decision on whether he plays the Brisbane Test will be made closer to the match.
“It looked like a player nearing the completion of his rehabilitation,” McDonald said.
He noted that Cummins had the required intensity and ball speed, but the key now is building enough soft-tissue resilience to avoid rushing him back.
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