Big blow to Australia before the second test, Josh Hazlewood out due to injury, change in the team
The second match of the ongoing five-match Test series between India and Australia will be played in Adelaide. This day-night test will start from 6th December. However, there is bad news for Australia before the match. Their star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is out of this important match due to injury. This is a big blow for the Australian team because Hazlewood had performed brilliantly in the first Test.
Hazlewood’s wonder in the first test
In the first Test played in Perth, Josh Hazlewood destroyed the Indian batting by taking four wickets in the first innings of India. Due to his sharp bowling, India could score only 150 runs in the first innings. In the absence of Hazlewood, Australia will not only face the challenge of strengthening its bowling attack but will also have to see how the team fills the gap.
Change in team: Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett get a chance
In place of Hazlewood, the Australian team has included Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett in the team as cover. Apart from this, Scott Boland is likely to be included in the playing eleven. Boland has not played a Test match since the Ashes series in July 2023. Currently, he is playing in the two-day practice match against India at Manuka Oval, Canberra.
Scott Boland may get a chance
Scott Boland can be selected considering his excellent performance in the Sheffield Shield. He is known for his fast pace, precise line and length. His bowling can prove especially helpful for day-night tests.
India relieved by Hazlewood’s absence
Hazlewood’s absence will be a relief for India. The Adelaide ground has been very favorable for Hazlewood. Last time, when India and Australia clashed on the same ground, Hazlewood bowled lethally and took 5 wickets for 8 runs. In that match, the Indian team was all out for just 36 runs, which is its lowest score in Test cricket.
Challenging situation for Australia
Hazlewood’s absence has weakened the Australian bowling attack, which may benefit India. However, Boland and other bowlers will try to make up for this shortcoming. Every match is important for both India and Australia in this series, and it will be interesting to see who emerges victorious in Adelaide.
