Follow UsFresh injury woes continue to haunt Australia ahead of the Ashes 2025, as both Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott left the field on day three of the Sheffield Shield clash against Victoria, on November 12 (Wednesday).
While Abbott isn’t expected to be part of Australia’s best Test XI, Hazlewood is definitely a vital cog in the wheels after Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the Perth Test. The pair did not take the field after lunch on day three of the encounter, with neither Cricket Australia (CA) nor New South Wales (NSW) confirming the extent of the injury.
In the clash, Hazlewood had bowled 18 overs in the first innings and nine in the second innings, picking up Sam Harper’s wicket. However, it was Abbott who ran through Victoria, as the all-rounder finished with figures of 4/18. Cricket.com.au, however, reported that both Hazlewood and Abbott have sustained hamstring injuries*, which significantly hamper their appearance in the Perth Test.
With Hazlewood’s fresh injury now, Brendan Doggett might be called up in Australia’s playing XI. Doggett has been in crazy form, with the pacer picking up five wickets in the ongoing round of the Sheffield Shield after impressing the selectors in the previous season.
The 31-year-old has picked up 190 wickets in his first-class career, averaging 26.46, with ten four-wicket hauls and nine five-wicket hauls, including a ten-wicket haul. Doggett is also a handy batter, with the 31-year-old having a high score of 49.
*Edited with the latest updates