India vs PM’s XI Tour Match Day 1 Washed Out

The first day of the two-day India vs Prime Minister’s XI tour match was abandoned due to persistent rain at Manuka Oval on Saturday. To make up for the lost game time, the teams will now face off in a 50-over match on Sunday.

Australia’s Injury Woes Deepen: Hazlewood Ruled Out

Adding to their challenges, Australia received a major blow with pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting December 6 in Adelaide. The match will be a day-night Test played with a pink ball. Hazlewood is sidelined with a “low grade left side” injury and will remain with the team to work on his recovery.

The injury comes at a critical juncture for Australia, who are trailing 0-1 in the five-match series after a crushing 295-run loss in the opening Test at Perth. Hazlewood’s absence could significantly impact the team, given his exceptional record in pink ball Tests. The 33-year-old famously took 5 for 8 in the 2020-21 day-night Test against India, where the visitors were infamously bowled out for just 36.

Abbott and Doggett Added to the Squad

Australia has named Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett as replacements in the squad. Both bowlers have been in fine form during the Sheffield Shield season.

• Brendan Doggett: The pacer claimed a five-wicket haul against Western Australia and boasts 11 wickets in three Shield matches this season. He also impressed with a career-best 6 for 15 in the Australia A game against India A in Mackay recently.
• Sean Abbott: Known for his consistent performances, Abbott brings both experience and versatility to the squad.

While Abbott and Doggett are included as cover, Scott Boland is the frontrunner to replace Hazlewood in the playing XI for the upcoming Test. Boland has an impressive Test record, particularly in home conditions.

India’s Preparation and Australia’s Challenge

The washed-out practice game has impacted India’s preparations, but they remain favorites heading into the second Test. Meanwhile, Australia’s injuries and poor form have raised concerns about their ability to level the series. The loss of Hazlewood, combined with a shaky batting lineup, adds to their challenges.

The Adelaide Test will be pivotal for Australia as they aim to bounce back and keep their hopes alive in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.