In an electric semifinal at the Kensington Oval, Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood proved to be his sensational self. His remarkable performance cemented his status as one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world. His incredible run came at the perfect time. As the pitch started to get worse it made for an uneasy place for any player to be on. The ever-dangerous Hazlewood delivered his own brilliant five-over spell. He ended with 4 for 5 underlining his priceless addition to the Wallabies side.
On the final day, as Australia fought the West Indies in a tense contest at Adelaide Oval… The pitch soon became a virtual minefield. As fissures opened and the ground grew ever worse to travel over, Hazlewood’s genius shone through. He had an English cricket crowd treated to an unconquerable weapon by his bowling attack, like a sensuous. No doubt, this brilliant attack gave Australia the power to erupt into the lead.
Hazlewood’s effect was most evident in his second spell. His skill at taking advantage of the conditions had West Indian batsmen unable to get their feet settled. Each of them told us that this five-over stretch was the stuff of legends. It underscored how unplayable he was on a field that had become more and more perilous.
The Tasmanian’s all-round skill set has proved central to Australia’s success – particularly as the fast bowler has been erratic in recent years due to injury. At 34 years old, Hazlewood’s experience enhances Australia’s bowling lineup, consisting of a brilliant trio alongside Mitch Starc and Pat Cummins. Their dual talents have repeatedly made life extremely difficult on opposing defenses and this game was no different.
Hazlewood X-factored his worth not just with his wicket-taking capabilities but more directly through his synergy with his fellow seamers. The trio’s ability to collaborate effectively has been a cornerstone of Australia’s bowling strategy, making their presence felt throughout the match.
Hazlewood’s singular accomplishments are what sets him to the top. His play added a new and vibrant layer to the colorful scenes that regularly unfold on the Kensington Oval. Though the venue has seen plenty of incredible cricketing accomplishments over the years, Hazlewood’s performance added to this storied venue’s rich legacy. His spell only increased Australia’s need for him, particularly as they have one eye on the challenges to come.
By that time, as Roston Chase, a West Indies batsman, famously admitted late in the match, it was too late for his side. “Me and Shai Hope, we were having a good partnership and then, obviously a few calls set us back a bit,” he said, illustrating the challenges that arose as Australia’s bowlers tightened their grip.
Hazlewood’s phenomenal performance underscores the importance of having experienced players who can rise to the occasion when conditions become unfavorable. His quality to adapt, change and deliver in the moment is why he is still such a key cog in Australia’s bowling arsenal.
