Having missed the second Test due to injury, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is optimistic about his return in the third Test against India. He has ticked off a few boxes in his recovery and hopes to bowl spells on the fourth day of the ongoing Test match to assess his fitness. Meanwhile, 35-year-old speedster Scott Boland, who replaced Hazlewood, proved his selection by taking two crucial wickets in the first innings.
Josh Hazlewood Eyes Return, Scott Boland Impresses in Gabba Test
After missing the second Test against India due to injury, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is inching closer to a comeback in the third Test at the Gabba. The 32-year-old has made significant progress in his recovery and is hopeful of bowling spells on the fourth day of the ongoing Test to gauge his fitness.
Meanwhile, 35-year-old speedster Scott Boland, who was called up to replace Hazlewood, has made a strong case for his selection. Boland took two crucial wickets in India's first innings, demonstrating his ability to step up in the absence of Australia's frontline bowlers.
Hazlewood's Injury and Recovery
Hazlewood suffered a side strain during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The injury forced him to sit out the second Test in Delhi, where Australia suffered a heavy defeat. Hazlewood has since undergone rehabilitation and is gradually increasing his workload.
"I've been able to tick off a few boxes today," Hazlewood said after bowling in the nets on the third day of the Gabba Test. "I'll have a bit of a bowl tomorrow and hopefully get through that alright. If I can get through that, I'd be confident to play."
Boland's Impact
Scott Boland's performance in the second Test has impressed many observers. The veteran bowler took the wickets of Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara in India's first innings, helping Australia to restrict the visitors to 262.
Boland has a reputation as a consistent performer at domestic level, but he has not had many opportunities to play for Australia. His performance in the second Test suggests that he could be a valuable asset to the team moving forward.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is Hazlewood's injury? Hazlewood suffered a side strain during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
2. When is Hazlewood expected to return? Hazlewood is hopeful of returning for the third Test at the Gabba.
3. Who replaced Hazlewood in the second Test? Scott Boland replaced Hazlewood in the second Test.
4. How did Boland perform in the second Test? Boland took two wickets in India's first innings.
5. What is Boland's reputation as a bowler? Boland is known for his consistency and accuracy at domestic level.
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