Australia suffered a major blow as Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes following another injury setback. This unexpected development has forced the team to rethink their bowling plans as they prepare for the remaining three matches of the Ashes series. While Hazlewood ruled was out of Ashes is disappointing news, Australia also received some positive updates about other senior players.
Australia Reshuffle Plans After Hazlewood’s Fresh Injury Setback
The Australian camp was left frustrated after coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes because of a fresh Achilles injury. Hazlewood had been recovering from a hamstring strain from the Sheffield Shield, but the Achilles flare-up last week ended his hopes of playing any part in the 2025–26 series. With Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes, Australia lose a major strike bowler who was expected to play a key role against England.
Coach McDonald expressed deep disappointment, saying the team had planned heavily around Hazlewood’s presence. The reality of Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes now means Australia must quickly restructure their pace attack. The team will now aim to get Hazlewood ready for the T20 World Cup in February. Meanwhile, the news that Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes puts added pressure on bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Michael Neser.
Even though Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes is a major setback, there was encouraging news about Pat Cummins. The captain is recovering from a lower-back injury and is expected to return for the Adelaide Test. Cummins has already impressed in match simulation sessions, and despite having no match practice, the coaching staff is confident he can lead well. His return becomes even more important now that Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes is confirmed.
Cummins and Lyon Boost Australia Despite Hazlewood Exit
Another positive for Australia is the likely return of Nathan Lyon, who was rested for the Brisbane Test. His experience will be vital, especially because Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes leaves a big gap in the attack. Starc, who leads the series with 18 wickets, also has a minor niggle, but he remains available for Adelaide. The tight schedule of the last three Tests means the selectors must manage workloads carefully, especially with Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes reducing depth.
Australia will likely rotate between Boland, Neser, and Doggett, while Jhye Richardson remains a late-series option. McDonald admitted that Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes increases the challenge ahead, but he believes Cummins and Lyon’s return adds much-needed balance.
Even though Hazlewood ruled out of Ashes has changed Australia’s plans, the team still feels confident with their returning senior players. The remainder of the series will test their depth, strategy, and resilience—but Australia believes they can adapt and push forward despite the setback.
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