Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has confidently defended his team’s ageing bowling unit ahead of the 2025–26 Ashes series, saying experience will outweigh concerns about age. The Australian squad includes 14 players over 30, with spin spearhead Nathan Lyon turning 38 just before the series begins.
While critics argue that the side may be past its peak, Hazlewood believes the bowlers’ collective understanding and familiarity with each other’s strengths give them an edge.
“The more you play together, the better you get at reading situations and backing each other,” Hazlewood said. He explained that this chemistry—built over years of Tests in varied conditions—allows the bowlers to maintain consistency and cover for one another when someone has an off day.
Experience Over Age
Hazlewood dismissed the notion that the team’s age signals decline, stressing that the bowlers’ shared experience is invaluable. “There comes a time when you might be too old, but I don’t think we’re there yet,” he remarked, confident that the group still has much to offer. The Australian pace trio—Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins—has dominated world cricket for nearly a decade, forming a partnership that has driven Australia to multiple series wins.
He pointed out that having endured long tours, injuries, and high-pressure matches together has refined their approach. “We’ve seen every kind of pitch and every kind of batter. That makes a big difference,” Hazlewood said, adding that the mental resilience developed through years of competition helps them stay calm under pressure.
Hazlewood Nears Milestone and Looks Ahead
As Hazlewood closes in on a personal milestone—just five wickets away from reaching 300 in Tests—he reflected on his current form and fitness. “I’m in the best shape I’ve been in for a long time,” he shared, noting that maintaining rhythm has been harder since the COVID-19 disruptions but that he feels stronger and more consistent now.
Meanwhile, captain Pat Cummins is recovering from a back stress injury and is expected to miss the opening Test but may return later in the series. Despite the temporary absence of their leader, Hazlewood expressed faith in the group’s depth and leadership continuity. “We know what’s required in the Ashes—it’s about execution and patience,” he said, underlining that experience and composure, not youth, will define Australia’s campaign.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.