Australia have been dealt another setback as Josh Hazlewood has picked up Achilles soreness while recovering from a hamstring strain. The latest issue has cast real doubt over his hopes of returning during the ongoing Ashes.
Hazlewood felt the soreness during rehab and it has slowed his progress at a time when he was building back towards match fitness. Cricket Australia said in a statement that it was a low grade concern and that he should return to running and bowling next week, but they also confirmed the injury needs careful short term management.
He had targeted a comeback in the third Test in Adelaide. Now even the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and the final match in Sydney look far from certain. The original hamstring injury came during a Sheffield Shield game for Victoria. He had begun controlled bowling before this new setback stopped his push towards playing again.
Hazlewood has had a tough run since 2022. His Test career has been repeatedly interrupted by side strain, Achilles trouble, calf issues and multiple hamstring problems. This latest delay has raised fresh worries about how long he can continue in the longest format.
Australia Lean on Pace Depth
Even without Hazlewood and injured captain Pat Cummins, Australia have dominated with their fast bowlers. Mitchell Starc grabbed ten wickets in the first Test. An all seam attack of Starc, Michael Neser, Scott Boland and Xavier Bartlett Doggett kept the pressure on at the Gabba.
Cummins is expected to return for the Adelaide Test. His comeback should add more balance and experience to the bowling group as Australia look to stay on top in the series.
Hazlewood will now wait to see how his Achilles responds next week. For now, the focus is on recovery, though his chances of playing any part in this Ashes look slimmer.
“Josh Hazlewood reported Achilles soreness this week during his rehabilitation from recent hamstring injury,” the board stated. “It is a low grade issue and he is expected to recommence running and bowling next week.”