Josh Hazlewood, an Australian seamer, has been ruled out of the World Test Championship Final against India, which begins on June 7.
Even though Hazlewood has been bowling at full speed in practice, he is dealing with a left Achilles problem in addition to the side strain he sustained during his recent IPL stint. With Australia playing the Ashes soon following the WTC Final, a cautious approach has been taken.
“Josh was very close to getting the go-ahead, but we are aware that our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off Test match for us,” stated Chair of Selectors George Bailey. “This will provide Josh with an excellent preparation for Edgbaston.” We will need all of our fast bowling assets with six Test matches in less than seven weeks.”
Following the development, Australia has welcomed fast bowler Michael Neser, 33, to their roster. After making his debut in the home Ashes series in 2021-22, Neser played only one more Test after a 12-month break. However, he is unlikely to add to that total during the WTC Final, with Scott Boland emerging as the favourite to make the Australian XI.
“Michael’s County form has been strong, and knowing that he was going to be close by allowed him to keep playing and us to be able to call on him,” Bailey said of Neser. “He is an excellent addition to the fast bowling group.”
