Australia faces a significant challenge ahead of the second Test set to take place in Adelaide from December 6, as it has been confirmed that fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will not participate due to a low-grade injury on the left side. This update was officially announced by Cricket Australia.
To address Hazlewood's absence, Cricket Australia has included Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett in the squad, though it appears likely that selector's choice will lean towards Scott Boland for inclusion in the playing eleven. This decision comes at a pivotal moment, as India leads the five-match Test series with a score of 1-0 following a decisive victory in the first match.
Boland, who has not donned the Australian jersey since July of the previous year during the Ashes series, is familiar with the Adelaide pitch from a two-year-old match against the West Indies, where he achieved impressive figures of three wickets for 45 runs.
In addition to his potential selection for the Test match, Boland is also slated to captain the Prime Minister’s XI against India during a two-day encounter at the Manuka Oval in Canberra this Saturday. This role could prove to be beneficial for him as he gears up to reintegrate into the national squad.
Reflecting on Hazlewood's recent performance, he emerged as Australia's highest wicket-taker during the first Test, capturing five wickets across both innings. Despite this individual achievement, Australia endured a challenging match that concluded with a staggering loss by 295 runs. Historically, Hazlewood has delivered outstanding performances in Adelaide, including a remarkable five-wicket haul against India when they were dismissed for a mere 36 runs in a previous Test.
In addition to Hazlewood’s injury, the Australian side is grappling with concerns surrounding all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. After bowling 17 overs in the recent match in Perth, Marsh has experienced discomfort and is currently being assessed for further fitness, prompting the inclusion of all-rounder Beau Webster as a precautionary measure.
Furthermore, the absence of regular all-rounder Cameron Green adds to Australia’s woes. Green has been ruled out of the series due to a stress fracture in his lumbar spine, which necessitated surgical intervention. This combination of injuries significantly impacts Australia’s bowling depth and balance, as both Hazlewood and Green have been integral to the team's structure.
In summary, the Australian cricket team is poised for a challenging second Test as it attempts to overcome injuries to key players. With Hazlewood sidelined and Marsh in doubt, selector Scott Boland’s experience could be critical in regaining competitive footing against an Indian side that has demonstrated formidable strength in recent encounters. Fans will be keenly observing how Australia adjusts its game strategy and team composition to compensate for these setbacks as they aim to equalize the series in what promises to be a captivating clash in Adelaide.