Hazlewood faces a tight timeline to contribute in the Ashes series due to a further physical setback on his road back to the bowling crease.
A Case of Frustrating Progress.
The recovery process has been frustratingly stop-start for the experienced bowler who was showing encouraging signs in his return from a hamstring injury, picked up in domestic cricket. Plans were for him to meet his teammates at the Gabba in recent days to continue his recovery electing to stay in Sydney.
“Hazlewood felt soreness in his lower leg during his rehabilitation {from a recent hamstring injury|from the earlier muscle issue|,” an official confirmed. “It's not a serious problem, and he is expected to recommence physical activities shortly.”
Star Bowling Lineup Plans Disrupted.
The team management is dealing with the prospect that their ideal attack may not play together in the current campaign. Hazlewood had been running and bowling in the nets in Sydney in a positive sign.
Notably, he used a traditional red cricket ball, which differed from the pink ball, in a sign he was pushing for the third Test in Adelaide. That schedule now appears in doubt although there is better news on Cummins who was close to playing in the second Test.
Team Management's View on Cummins and Lyon.
The chief selector confirmed stated Cummins was nearly available, his withdrawal coming at the last minute because of the ongoing effects {of a back injury|from a back complaint|. Bailey stated the captain will be available for the Adelaide Test, with the second Test timeline being too aggressive.
“He could’ve played though with certain limitations,” he noted. “Currently, he is in a phase of intensive bowling preparation. This is a situation where more time is beneficial.”
Bailey said Nathan Lyon is set to return for the next match. With Cummins to join Starc, and most likely Boland, the spots for fast bowlers like will come under most scrutiny for the next Test. The left-armer has been the cornerstone of the pace attack without Hazlewood and Cummins, taking 16 wickets at an average of 11.75.
