WTC Final 2023: Josh Hazzlewood ruled out due to injury, Michael Neser named as a replacement
Xtra Time Web Desk: Australian cricket team suffered a huge blow two days ahead of the much-anticipated World Test Championship Final against India to be played at the Oval from June 7. Star fast bowler Josh Hazzlewood has been ruled out due to an injury. Pacer Michael Neser has been named a s a replacement for Hazzlewood. Scott Boland is in the box seat to play in this week's World Test Championship final starting on Wednesday.
Neser was not named in Australia's extended 17-man group for the first three Tests of the UK campaign but, along with another reserve quick in Sean Abbott, has been training with the squad in recent days during centre-wicket sessions in southeast London. He has two Tests to his name, was already in the UK playing for Glamorgan in the County Championship having taken 19 wickets at 25.63.
Hazlewood has bowled at full tilt in recent training sessions in Formby and Beckenham in the lead-in to the Aussies' six-Test tour of the UK but is still managing a left Achilles issue as well as a side injury that flared up during the recent Indian Premier League.
“Josh was very, very close to being given the green light but we are cognisant that our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off Test match of us," Chair of Selectors George Bailey said.
“Michael’s County form has been strong and knowing that he was going to be close by allowed for him to keep playing and for us to be able to call on him. He is a great strength to have as part of the fast bowling group.
“This will give Josh an ideal preparation leading into Edgbaston. With six Test matches in a little over seven weeks we will need all of our fast bowling assets.”
Coach Andrew McDonald said while his side is eager to win their maiden WTC title, the tight turnaround to the five-Test Ashes campaign remains a consideration in managing their fast bowlers.
"Definitely consideration for (the schedule) - we don’t want to go too far ahead," McDonald told reporters.
"We’ve got the WTC final to play, which we are excited about, but on the back of that we have to quickly turn our attention to England and the Ashes. There are short turnarounds there. That’s nothing we’re not used to.
