Australia’s preparations for the 2025 Ashes have taken a major hit. Star fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the opening Test in Perth after a follow-up scan confirmed a hamstring injury. The news comes just three days after he was initially cleared during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match at the SCG.
Cricket Australia said the early scans returned a false sense of optimism. The updated results revealed a low-grade muscle injury, prompting immediate withdrawal.
Michael Neser Added as Replacement; Sean Abbott Also Injured
Hazlewood will not travel to Perth, and Queensland seamer Michael Neser has been called up as cover. Sean Abbott has also been ruled out with a hamstring issue, leaving Australia short of experienced fast-bowling options.
With Pat Cummins already unavailable due to a back injury, the responsibility now falls heavily on Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland.
Brendan Doggett in Line for a Possible Debut
South Australia quick Brendan Doggett is suddenly in the spotlight. Fresh from taking 13 wickets in two Shield matches after returning from his own hamstring issue, he’s now a strong contender to make his Test debut in Perth.
If Doggett plays, Australia could feature two Indigenous players in a Test XI for the first time, joining Scott Boland.
Hazlewood’s Injury Timeline Raises Concerns
Hazlewood had been in excellent rhythm after strong white-ball performances against India. During NSW’s Shield match, he reported hamstring tightness to stand-in captain Steven Smith, who quickly took him off the field. A second scan later confirmed the damage.
The fast bowler has dealt with multiple injuries in recent years. Last season, he missed three of the five Tests against India due to a side strain and calf problem.
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Australia’s Pace Stocks Being Severely Tested
Since 2014, Australia have rarely played a home Test without both Cummins and Hazlewood. The last two occasions they did—against England in 2021 and West Indies in 2022—both ended in wins, with Michael Neser featuring in those matches.
Cummins is pushing for a return by the Brisbane Test, saying he was bowling close to full intensity during a recent session at the SCG. But the timeline remains tight.
Australia’s bowling depth is thin. Jhye Richardson is returning from shoulder surgery and may become an option later in the series. Xavier Bartlett is another name selectors are monitoring.
England Also Dealt With Injury Scare
England had their own moment of concern when Mark Wood reported hamstring tightness during a warm-up game in Perth. A scan later cleared him, but both teams are dealing with growing injury pressure before the Ashes begin.
Big Questions Ahead of the First Test in Perth
With Hazlewood out, Cummins unavailable, and Abbott sidelined, Australia’s fast-bowling plans have been shaken just days before the Ashes opener. The team now faces a tough task choosing the right combination to battle England in challenging Perth conditions.
