Adelaide, December 9, 2024 — Australia is facing a significant setback ahead of the second Test against India, scheduled to begin on December 6, 2024, in Adelaide. Star pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out due to a low-grade side strain, leaving a notable gap in the Australian pace attack. Hazlewood, who had been in exceptional form, played a crucial role in Australia’s earlier matches, including their win over India in Perth.
With Hazlewood sidelined, Cricket Australia has called up two uncapped pacers, Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett, as potential reinforcements. Scott Boland is expected to replace Hazlewood in the pink-ball Test, given his leadership of the pace attack during recent warm-ups. The injury comes as a major blow, particularly after Australia’s heavy defeat in the opening match of the series.
This setback will test Australia’s depth, as they look to recover from their loss and level the series. The team faces a significant challenge in adapting to the absence of one of their premier bowlers while looking to bounce back and maintain competitiveness against India.
