‘Ek problem toh kam hui India ki’ – Fans react as Josh Hazelwood has been ruled out of the WTC final against India

Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of  Australia’s team for the one-off match against India commencing on Wednesday, leaving Scott Boland in the driver’s seat for the match in the upcoming World Test Championship final. Despite the fact that Michael Neser has entered the official 15-man squad, Boland now appears to be playing at The Oval with Pat Cummins as well as Mitchell Starc.

In preparation for the Australians’ six-Test tour to the UK, Hazlewood has bowled hard during recent practice sessions near Formby and Beckenham. However, he is still dealing with a left Achilles problem as well as a side strain that cropped up during the last edition of the Indian Premier League. 

We will need all of our fast bowling assets: George Bailey

The Chief of selectors spoke to cricket.com.au regarding the availability of Josh Hazelwood and announced his replacement in the 15-man squad. He said, “Josh was very, very close to being given the green light but we are cognisant that our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off Test match for us. Michael’s County form has been strong and knowing that he was going to be close allowed for him to keep playing and for us to be able to call on him. He is a great strength to have as part of the fast bowling group.”

The former Australian batter added that this time off will give Hazelwood the time he needs to prepare to be at full strength. He said, “This will give Josh an ideal preparation leading into Edgbaston. With six Test matches in a little over seven weeks, we will need all of our fast bowling assets.”

Although Neser and another reserve fast bowler, Sean Abbott, were not included in Australia’s enlarged 17-man squad for the initial three Tests during the UK tour, they have been practising with the team recently during centre-wicket practises in southeast London. Neser, who has played in two Tests, was already in the UK when he entered the County Championship for Glamorgan and had already taken 19 wickets at a 25.63 average.

Fans react as Josh Hazelwood has been ruled out of the WTC final against India: –