Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was not included in the second Test against the Windies in Adelaide due to complaints of a side strain. The 31-year-old will miss the Gabba Test against Dean Elgar’s South Africa because of injury is significantly more serious than originally expected.
The host nation is also apprehensive about Pat Cummins’ fitness since he injured himself during the first Test matchup against the West Indies in Perth. Australia has whitewashed the Windies by a margin of 2-0 and will look to extend their run against the Proteas too.
Australia’s chief selector George Bailey is hoping for Cummins’ recovery before the series opener against the Proteas and has ruled out Hazlewood from the match. The former Australian skipper revealed that the pacer needs more time to recover, and the management has decided to retain Michael Neser and Lance Morris in the squad for the Gabba Test.
“Pat continues to improve, bowled with freedom on Saturday, and appears likely to play this match although Josh will need more time. With that in mind, we have retained Michael Neser and Lance Morris in the squad for this match,” Bailey said in an official statement.
Chief selector George Bailey praises Australia’s fast bowlers
George Bailey has praised Michael Neser and Scott Boland, who replaced Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for their performance in the second Test.
“Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott. We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past. Lance is a very exciting prospect who will benefit from time with the squad. With so much cricket ahead, we continue to seek opportunities to grow and maintain our fast-bowling experience and depth,” Bailey added.
Australia squad for 1st Test v South Africa: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.