Pat Cummins Set to Lead Australia in Third Ashes Test as Hazlewood Ruled Out for Series
Australia’s preparations for the third Ashes Test have been overshadowed by a major selection blow, with Josh Hazlewood sidelined for the rest of the summer following an untimely injury relapse. Coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that the veteran quick, who first strained his hamstring during last month’s Sheffield Shield, aggravated the issue when an Achilles flare-up halted his return-to-play progress last week.
The decision to withdraw Hazlewood from the remainder of the Ashes is precautionary, but necessary, as Australia attempts to avoid long-term complications ahead of the T20 World Cup in February. For now, the immediate responsibility falls on captain Pat Cummins and the remaining pace group to carry the workload against an England side determined to stay alive in the series.
Hazlewood’s Injury Timeline and Why Australia Pulled the Plug Early
Hazlewood had been tracking well in rehabilitation after the hamstring strain, with the initial expectation that he would be available by the second or third Ashes Test. But his return stalled when discomfort in the Achilles emerged during training last week — a red flag the Australian staff did not intend to ignore.
McDonald explained that the risk of aggravation was simply too high to justify rushing him back.
“Josh has worked incredibly hard, but the Achilles flare-up meant we could no longer consider him for the summer. The focus now is getting him right for the World Cup,” McDonald said.
For an Australian attack built on rhythm and precision, Hazlewood’s absence alters both the balance and depth of the pace battery. Across formats, his unmatched control has been pivotal in Australia’s tactical plans — particularly in Test cricket, where his ability to extract late movement without sacrificing accuracy is a defining asset.
Impact on Australia’s Ashes Strategy
The immediate implication is that Cummins will again shoulder a heavy load, a responsibility he has managed impressively in recent months. With Mitchell Starc likely to start and Scott Boland pushing for selection, Australia’s quicks still offer variety, but without Hazlewood’s metronomic consistency.
Under Ben Stokes, England’s aggressive “Bazball” approach has placed premium value on bowlers who can hit hard lengths repeatedly. Hazlewood has historically been Australia’s best answer to that tactical challenge. His absence now raises new questions:
- Does Boland’s subtle seam movement make him the natural replacement?
- Will Australia consider rotating Starc to manage his workload?
- Could an all-rounder or extra spinner shift the balance of the XI?
One tactical observation: Hazlewood’s ability to bowl long, controlling spells often frees Cummins to attack in shorter, more explosive bursts. Without him, Cummins may need to rethink his self-management within matches — something that becomes even more demanding while captaining.
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My Analysis: If Cummins comes into playing 11 then Doggett has to go out
Hazlewood’s Eyes Now on T20 World Cup
The Australian camp has made it clear that the priority is long-term readiness, not short-term risk. With the T20 World Cup scheduled for February, Hazlewood now has a two-month window to rebuild workload gradually.
In the shorter format, Hazlewood has emerged as one of the world’s most reliable powerplay and death-overs bowlers. His return will be crucial to Australia’s hopes of lifting another ICC trophy.
A measured recovery also aligns with how Australia managed him in the lead-up to previous tournaments, avoiding unnecessary Test exposure to preserve him for global events.
Cummins Steady as Captain Ahead of Third Test
With off-field chatter about leadership stability quelled, Cummins appears locked in to captain Australia for the third Test. His recent form — both as captain and bowler — has solidified his position.
Cummins’ tactical evolution, particularly his ability to counter England’s tempo-driven batting style, has been praised by former players. His field adjustments and bowling changes during the first two Tests showcased a blend of calm and aggression that has become a hallmark of his captaincy.
The challenge, now intensified by Hazlewood’s absence, will test both his endurance and decision-making once more.
Australia Recalibrate, England Sense Opportunity
Hazlewood’s withdrawal is unquestionably a setback, but not an unfamiliar one, given Australia’s rotation challenges in recent years. The onus now shifts to Boland, Starc, and all-round support options to ensure Cummins is not overburdened.
As England looks to exploit any cracks, Australia must rely on depth, discipline, and leadership — all of which will be under scrutiny when the third Test begins.
Hazlewood, meanwhile, will spend the summer rebuilding with one goal in sight: returning fully fit for Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign.