Adelaide, November 30, 2024: In a significant setback for Australia, pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the second Test against India at the Adelaide Oval due to a side strain. Hazlewood, who played a key role in the first Test in Perth with impressive spells, sustained the injury during a practice session and will miss the critical match in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Australia, already trailing the series after a crushing 295-run defeat in Perth, will feel Hazlewood’s absence deeply. The bowler had claimed 4 for 29 in the first innings of the series opener, showcasing his ability to exploit bouncy pitches effectively. His injury adds pressure on Australia’s bowling unit, with Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh expected to shoulder more responsibility.
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India, led by Jasprit Bumrah, stunned the hosts in the first Test with commanding performances by debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. The Indian team displayed superior resilience, particularly in their second innings, where Jaiswal and Virat Kohli contributed pivotal centuries to set an unassailable target.
The Australian camp remains optimistic about Hazlewood’s recovery ahead of the third Test in Melbourne. However, the management is considering options for his replacement, with Scott Boland and Michael Neser likely contenders to join the playing XI.
The second Test, starting December 2, will test Australia’s resolve as they look to bounce back in the series against a confident Indian side. For India, the opportunity to secure a 2-0 lead in Australia is historic, and Bumrah’s leadership has inspired the team to aim for greater consistency.
Stay tuned for updates as the high-stakes Adelaide Test unfolds.
Web Team C6N
