Josh Hazlewood’s Injury Struggles Continue
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has once again been sidelined due to injury, raising concerns about his ability to sustain the demands of Test cricket. Hazlewood was ruled out of the remainder of the India series after suffering a calf strain, his second injury in three matches.
The recurring injuries highlight the challenges faced by Australia’s pace attack and spark debates on adopting a rotation policy to manage workloads effectively.
Hazlewood’s Injury Timeline
- Perth Test: Suffered a mild side strain, leading to his absence in Adelaide.
- Brisbane Test: Returned but picked up a calf strain during warm-ups on Day 4, limiting his participation to just one over.
- 2021-2023: Played only four Tests in two years due to frequent injuries.
Hazlewood’s setbacks are reminiscent of the injury patterns that disrupted his career previously, despite a successful run of 10 consecutive Tests leading up to this series.
Aaron Finch’s Take: ‘Cherry Pick’ Hazlewood’s Matches
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch has suggested that selectors may need to be strategic about the matches Hazlewood plays:
“With Hazlewood, he’s getting injured more and more regularly, so that would be a real concern. Maybe even cherry-pick the games he plays in the future.”
Finch believes this approach could preserve Hazlewood’s career while ensuring he remains impactful in high-stakes matches.
The Case for a Rotation Policy
Cricket experts, including Callum Ferguson, argue that a rotation policy could be the key to extending the careers of Australia’s pace bowlers:
- Managing Workload: Resting bowlers in less critical matches reduces the risk of injury.
- Depth in Talent: With bowlers like Scott Boland and Michael Neser available, rotation ensures all players remain match-ready.
- Longevity: A well-planned rotation strategy could elongate the careers of key players like Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc.
What’s Next for Hazlewood?
1. Rehabilitation and Recovery
Hazlewood is expected to focus on recovery with an eye on the Sri Lanka tour in January. However, his availability may depend on Australia’s strategy for managing workloads during the subcontinental series.
2. Future Test Matches
Australia is unlikely to field more than two pacers in Galle, meaning Hazlewood’s inclusion could depend on Cummins’ availability.
3. Addressing Recurrent Injuries
Hazlewood acknowledged the frustrations of frequent injuries:
“It’s just the timing of it—missing big games is probably the most frustrating thing.”
FAQs About Josh Hazlewood’s Injuries
Q1: Why is Hazlewood frequently injured?
A: Hazlewood has a history of side and calf injuries, which have kept him out of action for extended periods over the last few years.
Q2: What is a rotation policy in cricket?
A: It involves resting players periodically to reduce their workload and prevent injuries, ensuring they are fit for critical matches.
Q3: Who can replace Hazlewood in Australia’s squad?
A: Options include Scott Boland and Michael Neser, who have shown promise in domestic and international cricket.
Q4: When will Hazlewood return?
A: Hazlewood’s next opportunity to play Tests could be in Sri Lanka at the end of January, depending on his fitness and Australia’s team strategy.
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