Hazlewood out, Cummins expected for Test for Australia
Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the opening Test against South Africa due to the side strain he picked up last week but Australia captain Pat Cummins is on track to return at the Gabba as the tight Test schedule continues to challenge the fast bowlers.
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For Hazlewood, who reported some soreness after the final day in Perth and was then unable to get through a bowling stint the day before Adelaide, Australia. There are unfortunate similarities to last season where he picked up a side strain in the opening match of the Ashes and was then ruled out of the series
The selectors have named a 14-player squad for the Test which starts on Saturday in Brisbane. With uncapped Lance Morris was retained after he was called up against the West Indies game in Adelaide. It seems likely that Cummins, who had a quad strain, will return in place of Michael Neser with Scott Boland. Who produced a triple-wicket maiden on Saturday evening in Adelaide, set to retain his place. However Neser, who plays for Queensland, has an outstanding first-class record at the Gabba with 77 wickets at 19.46.
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Josh Hazlewood ruled out, Pat Cummins likely to play at Gabba, Australia
Cummins bowled on the outfield ahead of play on the third and fourth days in Adelaide and again in the nets on Monday. Where he sent down six overs at good intensity. He will need to come through Australia’s main training session in Brisbane on Thursday. “Pat continues to improve, bowled with freedom on Saturday and appears likely to play this match although Josh will need more time,” national selector George Bailey said. “Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott. We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past.
Lance is a very exciting prospect who will benefit from time with the squad. With so much cricket ahead, we continue to seek opportunities to grow and maintain our fast-bowling experience and depth.” There are unfortunate similarities to last season where he picked up a side strain in the opening match of the Ashes and was then ruled out of the series. The hope this time is that he will have the chance to play in Melbourne or Sydney. But the turnaround during the series is very tight. He left Adelaide early to head home to Sydney. But will rejoin the Test squad in Brisbane to continue his rehab.
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