Australia will be without the services of Josh Hazlewood for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. The pacer suffered a back injury and will miss the 2 Test-series. As his replacement, Jhye Richardson has been called up.
Hazlewood was rested for the recently concluded ODI series against India alongside Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. His replacement Richardson was impressive in the series and thus, finds a place in the Test squad.
Jhye Richardson bagged 6 wickets in 3 matches. He had accounted for the wicket of the Indian captain Virat Kohli in all 3 ODIs. Additionally, the 22-year-old pacer had a great run in domestic cricket. He took 27 wickets at an average of 19.03.
Hazlewood in contention for the World Cup
Talking about Hazlewood’s injury, David Beakley, the Australian physiotherapist mentioned that it was his previous back injury that has resurfaced. However, he is confident that the fast bowler will be able to make it to the World Cup to be played later this year.
“Josh [Hazlewood] has reported some back soreness over the last few days and scans have revealed a very early stage stress fracture in the same lower back area as his previous injury from last summer.
“He will now begin a rehabilitation program and we are confident he will be available for selection ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup in the UK later this year,” said Beakley as quoted by Cricbuzz.
“Jhye Richardson has had an impressive first half in his Sheffield Shield season and no-one could deny he has now continued that form in ODI matches for Australia. We consider Jhye to be an ideal replacement in the squad for Josh,” Trevor Hohns, the chief selector said.
Australia will host Sri Lanka in the first Test at the Gabba, Brisbane starting from January 24. The second Test will be played at the Manuka Oval, Canberra that begins from February 1.
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