The Australian Paceman's Fresh Injury Setback Puts in Doubt Ashes Pace Trio Return.
The veteran fast bowler is in a race against time to contribute during the historic Test series after another injury speed bump during his return path to full fitness.
A Case of One Step Forward, Two Steps Back.
It has been a case of one step forward two steps back for the 34-year-old paceman who was showing encouraging signs from a recent hamstring issue, sustained while playing for NSW. Hazlewood was due to join the national squad in Queensland earlier this week but instead remained but stayed in Sydney instead.
“The pace bowler experienced discomfort in his achilles while in recovery {from a recent hamstring injury|from the earlier muscle issue|,” a team spokesperson stated. “The concern is considered minor, with expectations he will restart his bowling program soon.”
Star Bowling Lineup Reunion in Doubt.
The selectors are confronting the possibility that their ideal attack could be kept apart in the current campaign. Just days ago, he was training in the nets in Sydney in a positive sign.
He was bowling with a red ball, rather than the pink variant, indicating his target was the upcoming match at Adelaide Oval. That timeline is now looking more unlikely for the right-arm quick regarding Pat Cummins, who nearly featured for the Brisbane match.
Bailey's Assessment Regarding Key Bowlers.
Chair of selectors George Bailey confirmed Cummins was a chance of playing, pulling out just before the game because of the ongoing effects {of a back injury|from a back complaint|. He assured that Cummins will be ready at the Adelaide Oval, with the second Test timeline being too aggressive.
“He could’ve played but there would’ve been some restrictions,” he noted. “He is now undergoing of intensive bowling preparation. It’s one of those ones where the longer [recovery] is better.”
Regarding Nathan Lyon, Bailey stated , dropped for the second Test. As Cummins prepares to partner Starc, and presumably Scott Boland, the roles of seamers such as will come under most scrutiny ahead of the third Test. Starc has been the mainstay of the pace attack without Hazlewood and Cummins, taking 16 wickets with a remarkable average.
