Josh Hazlewood has been cleared to join Australia's Ashes squad in Perth after scans revealed no muscle strain, easing concerns over his hamstring. The pace bowler indicated his injury scare is not serious and will continue training as planned before the first Test.
However, fellow quick Sean Abbott will miss the series opener after scans confirmed a moderate grade hamstring tear. Abbott, who alongside Hazlewood left NSW's Sheffield Shield match against Victoria for scans, will not be available for selection for the first Test in Perth.
Hazlewood's fitness remains crucial given captain Pat Cummins will miss the first Test due to his own back injury. Scott Boland is set to replace Cummins in the XI, but Australia have not entered a Test without two of their big-three fast bowlers since December 2022. If Hazlewood is unable to play, Brendan Doggett would likely debut after strong form for South Australia.
Cummins, who attended the SCG on Wednesday, praised Doggett's recent performances. 'He's been bowling really well the last couple of games from what I've seen,' Cummins said. 'He's really well placed to be vying for a spot in that first Test.'
Cummins reported feeling well after bowling at 90% in nets and is a chance for the second Test at the Gabba starting 4 December, though the third Test in Adelaide on 17 December may be more realistic. 'The Gabba is what we're building towards,' Cummins said. 'Hopefully by Perth I'm up there near 100%, and then see where we're at.'
The injury concerns also place importance on Cameron Green's fitness and whether Beau Webster remains as a second allrounder. Green bowled eight overs in the first innings in Perth, his biggest output since back surgery, while Webster took eight wickets in Tasmania's Shield loss but faces competition from specialist opener Jake Weatherald.
