Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out Of First Test Against India

Hazelwood has been battling an Achilles problem he picked up during Australia’s home Test against South Africa last month and has failed to bowl during training in Alur over the last few days.

The absence of Hazlewood robs Australia of another key member of their potent bowling attack for the crucial ICC World Test Championship clash, with veteran left-armer Mitchell Starc already ruled out of the series opener through injury.

Star all-rounder Cameron Green won’t be able to bowl during the Test due to his own injury, meaning seamers Scott Boland and uncapped quick Lance Morris are the only remaining quicks in the squad that are available to partner skipper Pat Cummins for the first Test.

Just whether Hazlewood regains full fitness in time for the second Test in Delhi from February 17 remains to be seen, with the experienced right-armer admitting he is still battling the injury he picked up against South Africa.

Australia is currently in the box seat to qualify for June’s World Test Championship final, with Cummins’ side leading the standings and needing just one positive result in India to ensure they book their place.