Xtra Time Web Desk: In what comes as a huge blow for Australian cricket team, premier fast bowler Josh Hazzlewood has been ruled out of first test match against India starting from February 9 at VCA stadium in Nagpur. Hazlewood confirmed a left Achilles niggle caused in part by damp run-ups at the SCG for last month’s Test against South Africa.
The 32-year-old fast bowler now joins pace partner Mitchell Starc and allrounder Cameron Green who is unlikely to bowl until the second Test on the casualty ward.
Scott Boland is being tipped to play in the first test in place of Hazzlewood. Uncapped speedster Lance Morris is the other pace option, and the visitors have not ruled out playing three quicks. This will mean both Boland and Morris can get a place in the playing XI alongside captain Pat Cummins.
Boland and Cummins took the new ball during match-simulation drills at Alur grounds on Sunday, the final day of Australia’s training camp before they fly to Nagpur.
Hazlewood has been a notable absentee from the bowling crease during the practice sessions at Alur. He will only resume bowling two days before the Nagpur Test.