NEW DELHI: Josh Hazlewood returns to Australia’s XI for the third Test against India at the Gabba, regaining fitness after a side strain sidelined him during the Adelaide Test. Captain Pat Cummins announced Hazlewood’s inclusion, with Scott Boland making way despite his stellar five wickets in the second-Test victory that leveled the series 1-1.
"Josh comes back in ... had no hiccups," Cummins said. "Had a really good bowl yesterday, had another good bowl in Adelaide a few days previous. Him and the medical team are super confident."
The decision leaves Boland unlucky to miss out after consistently strong performances. "It’s tough, he was fantastic in Adelaide," Cummins admitted. "Whenever he’s played, he’s been fantastic. A shame for Scotty, but there’s still a lot of cricket left this summer. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get another crack at some point."
Hazlewood showcased his readiness during an intense training session alongside Mitchell Starc under the Queensland sun. Bowling coach Dan Vettori supervised as Hazlewood bowled to squad member Josh Inglis and Queensland’s Lachlan Hearne.
Cummins explained why Hazlewood and Starc trained away from the main group at Allan Border Field: "We’ve done it most years ... It’s only about 25 meters at the back of the Gabba (nets), whereas we can get full run-ups at AB Field. There’s nothing more to it."
With Hazlewood back, Australia field a near-full-strength side as they look to seize the series lead in Brisbane.
Australia XI for third Test:
Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (wk) Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood
