In a significant development for the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and Australia, the Indian team has received a major boost. Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the remaining matches of the series. Cricket Australia (CA) made this decision to ensure that Hazlewood is fully fit and fresh for the highly anticipated Ashes Test series, which is scheduled to commence at the end of November, while hazlewood's absence is undoubtedly a positive turn of events for the Indian side, particularly considering his impactful performance in the previous game.
Hazlewood's Dominance in Melbourne
The five-match T20I series saw its first encounter washed out due to rain, leading to the second T20I in Melbourne where Australia secured a convincing victory. A pivotal factor in this win was the exceptional bowling display by Josh Hazlewood, while he wreaked havoc on the Indian top order, dismantling it with his precise and potent deliveries. Hazlewood's spell of four overs yielded just 13 runs while he claimed three crucial wickets, putting immense pressure on the Indian batsmen and ultimately contributing to their defeat. His performance was a testament to his skill and ability to challenge even the best batting lineups.
Rest for the Crucial Ashes Series
The primary reason behind Josh Hazlewood's withdrawal from the T20I series is the impending Ashes Test series. Cricket Australia is keen on managing the workload of its key players to prevent injuries and ensure they're in peak condition for one of the most significant Test rivalries in cricket. The Ashes, set to begin in late November, is a gruelling five-Test series that demands immense physical and mental resilience. Prioritizing the rest and preparation of an experienced and vital fast bowler like Hazlewood is a strategic move by the Australian team management to safeguard his long-term fitness and optimize his performance in the red-ball format.
Abhishek Sharma's Reaction
The news of Hazlewood's unavailability comes as a considerable relief for the Indian team. Given his destructive spell in Melbourne, Indian batsmen would have had to devise specific strategies to counter his threat in the upcoming matches. With him out of the picture, the Indian batting lineup can approach the remaining games with a degree more comfort and focus on playing their natural game. Hazlewood's absence will also weaken the Australian bowling attack to some. Extent, an advantage that Team India will look to capitalize on. This presents a golden opportunity for India to bounce back and level the series.
Following the second T20I in Melbourne, Indian opener Abhishek Sharma had lauded Josh Hazlewood's outstanding bowling performance. However, Sharma was unaware at the time that Hazlewood wouldn't be available for the subsequent three matches, while when questioned about it during the post-match press conference, he expressed surprise, stating, “Oh, is he not part of the series now, I didn’t know that! But obviously, he’s a pretty good player to play all formats. Still, I enjoyed the challenge because as a batter, you've to. Face the best bowlers, and that’s what I was trying to do. ” His reaction underscores the impact Hazlewood had on the game.
Australia's Bowling Options
Josh Hazlewood's absence will undoubtedly test the depth of Australia's bowling attack. The team management will now have to consider their options to fill the void left by the experienced pacer, while potential replacements could include Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, or Sean Abbott. These bowlers will be tasked with stepping up to maintain the pressure on the Indian batsmen and compensate for Hazlewood's absence, while this also serves as an opportunity for younger bowlers to showcase their talent and cement their place in the squad. Australia will need to rely on its bench strength to ensure they can maintain their competitive edge in the series.
