The Ashes: Josh Hazlewood Sidelined From Oval Test, Pat Cummins to Return After Four Years
Pat Cummins is all set to feature in his first Test match after four years in the fifth and final Ashes Test at The Oval after Josh Hazlewood was ruled out due to a shin injury.
Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the fifth and final Ashes Test at The Oval from Wednesday due to a shin injury. Hazlewood, who has taken 16 wickets in this series at an average of 25.75, will now return home and will be monitored by the fitness staff. (Hazlewood Happy To Be In McGrath's Shadow)
Australia's coach, Darren Lehmann, said in a statement that Hazlewood was not going to be considered for the fifth Test. He pointed out that Hazlewood has shouldered a heavy workload for the past six months, having played in nine Tests and the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. (Cummins Ready For Ashes Opportunity)
Lehmann said, "He has managed to get through this period without any major injury which is pleasing, though currently he does have some niggling problems that we would like to manage," he said.
Hazlewood's absence opens the door for Pat Cummins, who picked up 3/64 and achieved his highest first-class score of 82 in the recent tour game against Northamptonshire.
Cummins, who last played a Test against South Africa in Johannesburg in 2011, has been troubled by injuries. He picked up 6/79 and helped Australia to a tense two-wicket win on his debut Test and Australia will be hoping that he puts in a repeat performance.
Australia will be aiming to end their tour on a high after getting soundly thrashed in Edgbaston and Trent Bridge. The loss in the fourth Test resulted in Australia relinquishing the Ashes and they will be aiming to break their jinx at The Oval, having won just two Tests in the last 43 years.