Australia's plans to reunite their premier fast-bowling attack for the Ashes have suffered a significant blow, with Josh Hazlewood's return to the Test side delayed by a fresh injury concern.
Second Injury Disrupts Recovery Timeline
The experienced paceman, who had been making steady progress from a hamstring injury sustained in the Sheffield Shield, has reported soreness in his Achilles. This new issue has forced a pause in his rehabilitation programme just as he was aiming to rejoin the national squad.
Cricket Australia confirmed the setback in a statement, noting it was a "low-grade issue" and that Hazlewood is expected to resume running and bowling next week. The 34-year-old had been bowling in the nets in Sydney with a red ball, a clear indication he was targeting a comeback for the third Test in Adelaide, which begins on 17 December.
Cummins on Track, But Pace Trio Reunion in Doubt
While Hazlewood's timeline is now clouded, there is more positive news regarding captain Pat Cummins. The fast bowler, who missed the second Test in Brisbane due to a back injury, is confirmed to be fit and will rejoin the squad for the Adelaide match.
Chair of selectors George Bailey revealed that Cummins was very close to playing at the Gabba, withdrawing only due to concerns over potential bowling restrictions. "He could've played but there would've been some restrictions around the overs," Bailey stated, adding that the extra recovery time was beneficial.
This development means Australia must confront the growing possibility that their first-choice pace trio of Hazlewood, Cummins, and Mitchell Starc may not play together at all during this Ashes series.
Selection Decisions Loom for Adelaide
With Cummins returning to partner the in-form Starc—who has taken 16 wickets at an average of 11.75 in the series so far—the composition of the attack for the third Test is now a key focus. Scott Boland is the likely third seamer, placing the positions of standby quicks Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett under scrutiny.
Bailey also confirmed that off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who was dropped for the second Test, will return to the side for the Adelaide Oval fixture, known for its traditionally spin-friendly wicket.
For Hazlewood, the path back to the Baggy Green has become frustratingly stop-start. His initial injury occurred while playing for New South Wales against Victoria, and this subsequent Achilles complaint represents an untimely hurdle in his bid to influence the outcome of the iconic Ashes contest.
