Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has had a challenging year with injury concerns. These issues disrupted his participation in both international tours and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. The left Achilles tendon issue caused him to delay his arrival for the IPL, while a side strain cut short his stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Hazlewood, a vital cog in the Australian pace attack, only managed to play three games for RCB. His side strain, which has plagued him for the last two home summers, forced him to withdraw from the tournament. His recurring injuries are undoubtedly a concern for both him and the teams he represents.
In Hazlewood’s absence, two names surfaced as potential replacements – Michael Neser and specialist pacer Scott Boland. They are now in contention for the third pacer slot, aiming to complement captain Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Both Neser and Boland have the potential to seize this opportunity and make a significant impact.
However, Australia will undoubtedly miss Hazlewood’s experience and skill. His uncanny ability to maintain line and length, coupled with his knack for picking wickets at crucial times, is invaluable. The team management will be hoping for his quick recovery and return to bolster the side.
Chief selector George Bailey offered some respite to the Australian fans. He mentioned that Hazlewood should be ready for selection for the first Ashes Test against England. The match is slated to begin at Edgbaston on June 16.
Michael Neser has replaced Josh Hazlewood in the WTC Final squad against India
Bailey’s statement will be music to the ears of Australian cricket enthusiasts. The Ashes is a marquee event in the cricket calendar. Hazlewood’s availability will significantly strengthen Australia’s bowling attack, which will be crucial in their battle against arch-rivals England.
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However, Hazlewood’s recovery journey won’t be an easy one. The task at hand is to rehabilitate and regain full fitness before the all-important Ashes series. The Australian medical team will be working closely with him to ensure a smooth and timely recovery.
To sum up, Josh Hazlewood’s injury-enforced exit from IPL 2023 has created a vacancy in the Australian line-up. In his absence, Michael Neser and Scott Boland are vying for a place in the side. However, Hazlewood’s possible return for the Ashes is a ray of hope for Australia.
Hazlewood’s story serves as a reminder of the physical demands of professional cricket. It underscores the importance of managing player workload and ensuring they get the necessary rest and rehabilitation. Looking ahead, cricket fans around the world will be eagerly waiting for Hazlewood’s return to the cricket field. His journey back to fitness will be keenly watched in the run-up to the Ashes.
Most of the times India will fall for the new pacers, This time it is Neser. https://t.co/1WeyqX9iq1
— No One (@mystry000) June 4, 2023
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Chalo now we know beforehand who's gonna take Kohli's wicket in this match. https://t.co/YZxgdAMzNm
Advertisement— a (@swabhaavik) June 4, 2023
And this guy will take fifer. https://t.co/ZstKIyWQIY
— Darshan (@darrs_an) June 4, 2023
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Michael Neser to Virat Kohli…
AdvertisementGone!!! Micheal Neser got the big fish. Inside edge onto the pads and dribbles to the stumps. What an unlucky dismissal for Kohli. https://t.co/0QTyJji8FE
— Husain (@husain_tweets18) June 4, 2023
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Fifer guaranteed for him now https://t.co/mD8KTQcwgB
Advertisement— Manish ➐ (@Man_issssh) June 4, 2023
History proof that these underdog kind of bowlers always ripped off Ind https://t.co/64mTdRZImH
— Robin Saroy💫 (@RobinSaroy2002) June 4, 2023
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Fk man. Boland playing then. He is going to rip the lineup apart. https://t.co/4xGgLYpqkY
Advertisement— Sai Krishna💫 (@SaiKingkohli) June 4, 2023
No matter. India gonna win this time. 🇮🇳 https://t.co/vKNnBetNv3
— S ' (@illusion_S_) June 4, 2023
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