Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of 2nd Test Against India, Boland Likely to Replace Him
Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of Australia’s second Test against India due to a low-grade side strain. The experienced pacer, who was Australia’s standout bowler in the first Test, will remain in Adelaide to focus on his recovery. His absence leaves a significant hole in Australia’s bowling attack as they prepare for the day-night Test in Adelaide.
Hazlewood’s Injury and Replacement
Cricket Australia confirmed that Hazlewood’s injury will keep him out of the second Test, marking the first Test he has missed since last year’s Ashes series. He had been in excellent form during the Perth Test, where he claimed 5 for 57, and was a key figure in Australia’s victory.
Scott Boland, who was Hazlewood’s replacement in the Ashes last year, is expected to return to the XI in Adelaide. Boland’s remarkable record at home—28 wickets at an average of 12.21—makes him a strong contender to step in. This would be Boland’s first Test since the Leeds Ashes game.
Potential Squad Changes and Call-Ups
With Hazlewood unavailable, selectors have added uncapped bowlers Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett to Australia’s squad, both of whom are yet to make their Test debut. Abbott has frequently featured in Australia’s white-ball squads and is seen as a likely backup. Doggett, on the other hand, made an impressive return to the national scene with a career-best 6 for 15 against India A, earning his call-up after injuries to other players.
Michael Neser, another contender, was ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury, further limiting the available options for selection.
Other Changes and Concerns
Australia has also made changes to its squad beyond Hazlewood’s injury. Beau Webster, an uncapped allrounder, has been added to the squad amid concerns over Mitchell Marsh, who pulled up sore following his performance in Perth.
Meanwhile, Josh Inglis, originally picked as a backup batter, remains in the squad, although his spot could be in jeopardy depending on Marsh’s fitness ahead of the Adelaide Test.
The loss of Hazlewood adds to the pressure on the Australian team, especially following their heavy 295-run loss to India in Perth. There are also questions over the batting lineup, with Marnus Labuschagne facing scrutiny after failing to score in both innings in Perth.
India’s Preparations and Weather Disruptions
India is scheduled to play a two-day game against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra this weekend, but heavy rain threatens to disrupt those plans. Scott Boland, part of the PM’s XI, will look to get some overs under his belt, having played just two first-class matches this season.
Australia will begin training in Adelaide a day earlier than planned to ensure they are fully prepared for the second Test, which is crucial after their defeat in the series opener.
Match Preview
As the second Test approaches, Australia will need to regroup after a disappointing loss in the first match. The team’s bowling attack will see changes with the loss of Hazlewood, but Boland’s return offers hope. However, Australia must also address the batting concerns, particularly with Labuschagne’s form under the microscope.
With the Test series poised to continue under the lights of Adelaide, both teams are looking to bounce back from their respective challenges.
