Australia’s Josh Hazlewood will miss the upcoming Ashes Test due to a hamstring tear, adding to Australia’s bowling concerns as captain Pat Cummins is also sidelined. In contrast, England’s Mark Wood has been cleared to play after overcoming a hamstring scare. Hazlewood’s injury was initially thought to be minor, but further tests revealed a muscle tear sustained during a recent match. Australia has called up Michael Neser as cover, with Sean Abbott also unavailable due to injury.
The Australian team will miss Hazlewood’s experience, with Mitchell Starc now the sole remaining frontline fast bowler in the squad for the first Test. On the other hand, England received positive news as Wood’s hamstring issue turned out to be minor following precautionary scans. Wood is expected to continue training for the upcoming Test.
With both teams facing bowling challenges, the first Ashes Test promises an interesting contest. Australia will need to decide on Hazlewood’s replacement, with options including uncapped players like Brendan Doggett. England, on the other hand, may opt for a pace-heavy attack, potentially leaving out a spinner in favor of quick bowlers like Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, and Brydon Carse.
As the teams prepare for the Test match, fans can enjoy discounts of up to 70% on football kits and merchandise from various Premier League clubs.