Hazlewood's Recent Injury Setback Jeopardizes Ashes Pace Trio Return.
The veteran fast bowler is in a race against time to make an appearance in the Ashes series following a new fitness concern in his journey back to full fitness.
A Story of Mixed Rehabilitation.
It has been a case of one step forward two steps back for the 34-year-old paceman who had been making positive steps in his return from a hamstring injury, picked up in domestic cricket. Plans were for him to meet the national squad in Queensland in recent days to continue his recovery but remained in New South Wales.
“The pace bowler experienced achilles soreness this week as part of his rehab {from a recent hamstring injury|from the earlier muscle issue|,” a team spokesperson stated. “It's not a serious problem, with expectations he will restart his bowling program soon.”
First-Choice Attack Reunion in Doubt.
Australia are facing the reality that their premier fast bowling unit could be kept apart this series. Hazlewood had been running and bowling alongside fellow injured paceman Cummins in a positive sign.
Notably, he used a traditional red cricket ball, which differed from the pink ball, indicating his target was the third Test in Adelaide. His participation for that Test is now less certain for the right-arm quick about Cummins, who was considered for the Brisbane match.
Bailey's Assessment on Cummins and Lyon.
Chair of selectors George Bailey said Cummins was close to selection, his withdrawal coming at the last minute due to the lingering impact {of a back injury|from a back complaint|. He assured that Cummins will be ready for the Adelaide Test, but the Brisbane match came too soon.
“He could’ve played but with overs restrictions in place,” Bailey said. “He is now undergoing of consecutive bowling workloads. A longer build-up is definitely preferable.”
Regarding Nathan Lyon, Bailey stated , who was omitted in Brisbane. With Cummins to join Starc, and presumably Scott Boland, the spots for fast bowlers like are up for discussion for the Adelaide fixture. Starc has been the mainstay of the attack in the absence Hazlewood and Cummins, snaring 16 wickets at an average of 11.75.
