Hazlewood Out with Calf Strain
Hazlewood, who missed the second Test in Adelaide with a side strain, bowled just one over before leaving the field on the fourth day of the third Test at the Gabba.
With the series locked at 1-1 and the Test seemingly on course for a draw, the 33-year-old’s latest injury is a major blow to the hosts.
“Josh Hazlewood has sustained a right-sided calf strain which will prevent him from playing any further part in the Test match against India in Brisbane,” a Cricket Australia (CA) statement said.
“He sustained the injury during the warm-up this morning and after bowling one over was unable to continue.
“He is likely to miss the remainder of the Test series. A squad replacement will be made in due course.”
Jason Gillespie opens up on his experience of coaching Babar Azam
Australia’s bowling coach Daniel Vettori said Hazlewood was despondent after suffering the injury.
“He felt it this morning in warm-ups and gave it a good crack,” Vettori said.
“It’s just unfortunate for him to come back, put so much effort in after another injury from the side strain in the last Test, and to pick up a calf strain, particularly in these circumstances, was tough on him.
“He’s one of the best bowlers in the world and it affects the whole team.”
The fourth Test begins in Melbourne on December 26 with the fifth and final Test in Sydney from January 3.
Vettori said that while he wasn’t a selector, the obvious choice to replace Josh Hazlewood in Melbourne was Scott Boland.
The 35-year-old Boland stepped in for Hazlewood in the pink-ball second Test, which Australia won by 10 wickets to level the series. Boland took five wickets in the match.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
