Australia’s Hazlewood Eyes Return for Third India Test

#Cricket #AustraliaVsIndia #JoshHazlewood #GabbaTest

Hazlewood’s Fitness Assessment

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who missed the second Test due to a recurring side strain, bowled two full-paced spells at Adelaide Oval and awaits confirmation of his availability for the third Test in Brisbane.

“It’ll depend on how I pull up in the next 24 hours,” Hazlewood stated, noting that the intensity and repetition of his bowling workload will determine his readiness.

Caution Over Side Strains

Hazlewood, known for his cautious approach to managing injuries, acknowledged he could have played in the Adelaide Test but opted against risking aggravation. “I might have been in a bad state by the end, even though it was a short game. It just wasn’t quite right,” he explained.

In his absence, Scott Boland delivered an impressive performance, claiming 5-105 as Australia secured a dominant victory within three days to level the series 1-1.

Addressing Dressing Room Speculations

Hazlewood also addressed controversy surrounding his comments after the first Test, which some media outlets interpreted as signaling a rift between Australian bowlers and batters.

“Walking out of that press conference, I thought it was a normal one for me. I was surprised by how things were interpreted,” he remarked, suggesting the 10-day gap between matches fueled unnecessary speculation.

The Road Ahead

Australia will aim to maintain momentum as the series moves to the Gabba, with the third Test beginning Saturday. Hazlewood’s inclusion will hinge on his recovery and fitness evaluation, while Boland remains a strong alternative in the pace attack.