Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler who did not play in the recently concluded WTC final against India at the Oval due to injury, and his replacement, Scott Boland, made a tremendous impact in Australia’s one sided victory; he dismissed five Indian batters, including the valuable wicket of Virat Kohli.
The Ashes series against England will get underway from June 16 onwards, and the first Test will be held at Edgbaston. Hazlewood has 222 Test wickets in his kitty at an average of 25.83, and he is likely to miss the opening Test.
However, he is optimistic about playing at least three Tests in the series. Hazlewood and Starc were not featured in the starting eleven four years ago, which featured James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, and Pat Cummins. Later, he played four Tests and took 20 wickets, which helped Australia draw the series 2-2 and retain the urn.
The Australian pacer has played just four Tests in the last two years. A niggling injury always keeps him away from playing eleven. He returned to Australia from the tour of India in February and March early this year due to an Achilles injury. He failed to participate in the IPL as well, owing to side soreness.
Ashes is a challenge for both sides, and Hazlewood’s presence will definitely provide more spark in the Australian bowling.