Josh Hazlewood's last-minute exit from the Perth Test came as a huge blow for Australia, especially since captain Pat Cummins had already been ruled out of the fixture. However, the Aussies showed remarkable composure and ensured that they didn't miss the duo's services. The crushing eight-wicket win in Perth has given Australia a 1-0 lead but there could be some major trouble brewing regarding Hazlewood.
When the first scans were taken, Hazlewood was cleared to play the Perth Test but the second scans suggested otherwise. 11 days remain till the start of the second Test in Brisbane and there is no clarity yet about Hazlewood's availability. Cummins, meanwhile, is likely to slot back into the XI and this will be a major boost for the home side.
However, Hazlewood is in doubt for that fixture and there are speculations that he could even miss the entire series. While the last bit does sound like an exaggeration at this point, hamstring injuries can take a long time, especially for fast bowlers. Noted Australian journalist Peter Lalor gave a shocking update on Channel 7 during the chat show that followed the first Test.
"If the whispers I'm hearing about Hazlewood are right, you are not going to see him again," said Lalor.
"If the worst comes to fruition, Hazlewood, we might not see him this series."
"If these whispers I'm hearing about Hazlewood are right ... we might not see him again in this series."
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) November 23, 2025
- Pete Lalor #Ashes pic.twitter.com/HBfM5XNrfJ
If this comes true, Australia will have a huge task at hand. They do have fast bowling resources and with Cummins nearing peak fitness, the hosts will feel buoyant, especially having gone 1-0 up at Perth. However, Cricket Australia's bizarre scheduling means that three Ashes Tests are scheduled in December. This will be followed by the New Year Test that only has a four-day gap from the fourth Test.
A five-match Test series with such a packed schedule can be demanding and if Hazlewood misses all games, Australia will find it difficult to rotate their main pacers. Further updates on Hazlewood's fitness are awaited and an official statement should be out soon.
