Ash 2021-22 | Josh Hazlewood rules out second side load test

By Talat Masood Dec 13, 2021, 10:49 IST

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was excluded from the second Ashes test in Adelaide due to the side loading he suffered during the series opener in Brisbane. The right arm Schnell was able to throw just 14 overs in the second innings of the First Test, which Australia won with nine wickets.

Josh Hazlewood was banned from the second Ashes Test in Adelaide due to the sideline incurred in Brisbane, with Jhye Richardson, the fast-paced favorite from Western Australia, replacing him. Hazlewood bowled at the gabba on day four after being held back for much of the innings after scans showed "very little" exposure, but it was always unlikely that he would be risked for the day-night test.

He returned to Sydney on Sunday instead of going to Adelaide to focus now on being ready for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Like all Australian attacks, he came to the ashes without much match practice. Hazlewood has taken 32 wickets at 19.90 in seven day-night tests. The series now includes a second match under lights after the Perth device moved to Hobart.

Richardson is the front runner to step into the pace attack after enjoying a formidable Sheffield Shield season collecting 23 wickets at 1:43 pm. He made his last two Tests against Sri Lanka in 2019, making his debut in a day-night match at the Gabba, where he achieved match numbers of 5 for 45.

Unoccupied Michael Neser, however, timely recalled his credentials by winning seven wickets against the England Lions, including 5 for 29 in the first innings.

Australia haven't expanded the roster for the second test. David Warner didn't play Ben Stokes during England's second innings at Brisbane or the small chase after a blow to the ribs but is expected to be fit. Usman Khawaja is the substitute dough.