Before the beginning of the Ashes 2025, Australia got a big lift when it was confirmed that Josh Hazlewood would not be seriously injured after a brief hamstring scare. On the other hand, fast bowler Sean Abbott will not be able to play the first Test in Perth due to a moderate hamstring strain that he has caused.
Pat Cummins confirms Josh Hazlewood’s fitness as Abbott faces spell on sidelines
Both pacers, who were representing New South Wales in their Sheffield Shield match against Victoria, picked up injuries and were sent for scans. According to cricket.com.au, Hazlewood was cleared of a right hamstring strain — a major relief for Australia, particularly with captain Pat Cummins set to miss the series opener.
A Cricket Australia spokesperson confirmed Hazlewood’s availability, saying, “He will train as planned in the lead-up to the first Test in Perth.” Abbott, meanwhile, suffered a moderate-grade strain to his left hamstring. “He will not be available for selection for the first Test in Perth, and his return-to-play plan will be developed over the coming weeks,” the spokesperson added.
Cummins, who attended a sponsorship event at the SCG, said Hazlewood was in good spirits. “Joshy was pretty confident when he walked out, so hopefully it shouldn’t be too much of an issue,” the skipper said. “He knows his body really well and wanted to get it checked out. He looked a lot happier afterwards.”
With Cummins unavailable, Scott Boland is expected to spearhead the attack alongside Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Abbott’s injury could pave the way for Brendan Doggett, who is pushing for a maiden Test call-up after claiming two five-wicket hauls for South Australia since returning from his own hamstring setback.
“He’s really well placed to vie for a spot in the first Test,” Cummins said. “It’s great to have a squad full of players in form, and he’s certainly one of them.”
On his own recovery, Cummins revealed he bowled at 90 per cent intensity during a net session on Tuesday and is targeting a return for the second Test at the Gabba on December 4, though the third Test in Adelaide remains a more likely comeback. “We’re building toward the Gabba,” he said. “It’s a quick turnaround, but we’ll give it a good shot.”
With Hazlewood cleared, Abbott sidelined, and Cummins nearing full fitness, Australia’s pace attack for the Perth Test is beginning to take shape. The focus now shifts to Hazlewood’s rhythm and Boland’s consistency as the hosts look to set the tone for a strong start to the Ashes summer.
