🚨 HUGE Blow: Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of First Ashes Test – Australia’s Pace Crisis Deepens
Devastating news has rocked the Australian camp just days before the first Ashes Test against England in Perth. Veteran pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood has officially ruled himself out of the series opener, significantly depleting Australia’s fast-bowling stocks.
The 34-year-old sustained a hamstring injury during a recent Sheffield Shield match. The despite initial optimism, follow-up scans have confirmed a strain. This blow comes after captain Pat Cummins was also ruled out of the Perth Test as he continues his recovery from a lower back injury.
Cricket Australia confirmed the news in a statement, noting. “Early imaging can occasionally underestimate low-grade muscle injuries. As a result, Hazlewood will not travel to Perth and has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test match.”
Australia’s Pace Attack: Who Steps Up in Perth?
With both Hazlewood and Cummins watching from the sidelines, the pressure to deliver the early breakthroughs in the **Ashes 2025-26** falls heavily on the remaining members of the squad. The absence of two world-class bowlers creates a massive selection headache for the selectors, especially with reserve quick Sean Abbott also out injured.
Key Bowlers for the First Test:
- Mitchell Starc: Now the undisputed leader of the attack. His swing and pace will be crucial, particularly with the new ball.
- Scott Boland: A proven performer in home conditions, Boland is a certainty to partner Starc and maintain pressure.
- Nathan Lyon: The frontline spinner’s role becomes even more vital in controlling the middle overs and picking up key wickets.
The Race for the Third Seamer Spot
The most pressing question for new captain Steve Smith is who takes the crucial third pace role. Allrounder Cameron Green is expected to provide some overs, but a specialist bowler is needed.
The front-runner for a shock Test debut is 31-year-old South Australian pacer **Brendan Doggett**, who has been in scintillating form in the Sheffield Shield. Alternatively, veteran quick **Michael Neser** has been added to the squad as cover, offering a safer, experienced option.
“It’s a tough pill to swallow losing a bowler of Josh Hazlewood’s calibre, especially alongside Pat. But we back the depth in Australian cricket. Whoever steps in will be ready for the Ashes intensity.”
The Impact on The Ashes Series
England, who are desperate to win the Ashes on Australian soil for the first time since 2010-11, will see this as a huge opportunity. Their own injury concern with fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared, giving them a significant psychological advantage heading into the opening match at Optus Stadium on November 21.
The situation puts immense scrutiny on Australia’s remaining fit bowlers and tests the depth of their squad right from the start of the five-Test series. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if the chosen attack can withstand the pressure and keep the English batting lineup in check.
What Happens Next?
Hazlewood will immediately begin his rehabilitation, with the aim of being available for the second Test in Brisbane starting on December 4. His recovery, along with that of Pat Cummins. The most followed storyline over the coming weeks.
