Josh Hazlewood, a senior pacer, was ruled out of the first Test match in Perth, dealing Australia yet another setback for the 2025–26 Ashes. The seasoned seamer was forced to miss the opening game of the series due to what was initially thought to be a minor worry but was later determined to be a hamstring strain.
Hazlewood left the Sheffield Shield match between Victoria and New South Wales earlier this week after claiming to be uncomfortable. Repeat imaging the next day verified a low-grade hamstring strain, although early scans suggested no significant damage. Cricket Australia clarified that the amended diagnosis was the result of early scans sometimes underestimating such ailments. Josh Hazlewood will not be travelling with the team and has been formally pulled from the Perth Test as a result.
With captain Pat Cummins already out with a back injury and fellow seamer Sean Abbott, who was initially selected as bowling backup, now out after sustaining a hamstring injury in the same Shield encounter, his absence adds to Australia’s mounting list of worries.
Josh Hazlewood is crucial in home Ashes conditions, so his absence is especially detrimental. He has been one of Australia’s most reliable players with 295 Test wickets. Prior to the most recent loss, he was potential in Sheffield Shield matches and recently made an impression in the white-ball series against India.
“Further imaging today has confirmed the injury, although the initial tests on Wednesday showed no signs of muscular strain. Low-grade muscle injuries might sometimes be understated by early imaging, according to a CA statement.
Josh Hazlewood cover was added by Michael Neser.
Scott Boland had already been considered to take Cummins’ position, but Josh Hazlewood exit has made room for more changes. With two recent five-wicket hauls, South Australian quick Brendan Doggett has been in excellent domestic form and is now a serious candidate for an unexpected debut. Doggett is in a good position to compete for a seat in the first Test, according to Cummins, who recently praised his outstanding form.
Michael Neser was draughted by Australia to cover both Abbott and Josh Hazlewood. Neser has played two Test matches since making his debut in the 2021 Ashes in Adelaide. His presence guarantees that Australia won’t be forced into hurried selections in an already thin attack, even though he may not be confirmed in the playing XI just yet. Neser is poised to offer a steady hand if circumstances call for it, with Doggett in the running and Boland anticipated to make an appearance.
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