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Hazlewood Out: Ashes Dream Dashed by Injury
10 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Josh Hazlewood is out of the Ashes due to hamstring and Achilles injuries.
- Pat Cummins is set to return as captain for the third Test.
- Mitchell Starc is cleared to play despite a side niggle.
Australia's pursuit of Ashes dominance has been significantly hindered by the withdrawal of pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood for the remainder of the series against England. This unfortunate development coincides with the anticipated return of Pat Cummins, who is expected to resume captaincy duties for the upcoming third Test in Adelaide.
Head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed Hazlewood's ongoing recovery from a hamstring strain was complicated by a fresh Achilles issue. Having already missed the initial two Tests, Hazlewood will now concentrate on fitness for the T20 World Cup. Cummins, meanwhile, has completed rigorous training after a lower-back injury and is deemed ready to lead and strengthen the bowling attack.
Adding to their bowling strength, Mitchell Starc has been medically cleared for the Adelaide Test, despite experiencing a side niggle. While Starc remains a key wicket-taker, Australia faces decisions on managing pace workloads with several other bowlers under consideration for the packed schedule ahead.
