Josh Hazlewood praises Todd Murphy ahead of the fourth Ashes Test: “He’s had a great start to his career.”

Before the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood praised Todd Murphy. Josh Hazlewood recalled Murphy’s Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) debut game against India in 2023, when the rookie off-spinner picked up seven wickets in Nagpur.

The injured Nathan Lyon’s spot has been filled by the 22-year-old spinner. Following a calf strain suffered during the second Test at Lord’s, Lyon was forced to withdraw from the series.Murphy participated in the third Test at Headingley, although he only recorded one wicket.

Todd’s professional life has started off great: Josh Hazlewood

“Todd’s had a tremendous start to his career, especially in the subcontinent against the top spin spinners in the world, India. Prior to the Manchester Test, Hazlewood told reporters, “I know we will miss Gazza [Lyon] occasionally when we are on the pitch, but I think Todd as his replacement has done a terrific job so far and expect the same again.

In comparison to how Test matches often go for us, “we haven’t bowled a lot of overs,” and “the way England play, it gets us in the field for a little less time in terms of workload.” I was feeling very well going into [Headingley],” he continued.

“Now that I can step back and consider the big picture, it was probably the best decision. It’s evident that I was eager to play. But now it all makes sense,” the bowler stated upon his arrival after missing the previous Test.

The tourists are ahead 2-1 in the five-match series after taking the first two Tests. However, England battled back and won the third Test by three wickets to keep the series alive. Undoubtedly, the England team lead by Ben Stokes will aim to make it 2-2 following the fourth match on July 19 at Old Trafford.