Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has left the national Twenty20 series against India. For now, of course, his focus must be on getting into form for the next Ashes series. The 34-year-old cricketer has fought his way through a mountain of injuries these past few years. Now, his role is more vital than ever, as Australia look to defend the Ashes trophy.
Hazlewood was recently downplaying thoughts on his white-ball bowling, saying that he’s never felt as good as he ever has. He is raring to go from T20 format to red-ball cricket. Beginning November 10, he will be playing with Victoria in Australia’s domestic first-class competition, the Sheffield Shield. In this domestic clash, he’ll do so alongside fellow pace bowler and Tasmanian Scott Boland in the match against Victoria.
The Aaron Finch led Australian team were handed a bitter blow before they departed for India, with captain Pat Cummins ruled out for a minimum of the first Test. Therefore, Hazlewood will likely be asked to carry a larger load in supporting Mitchell Starc as the other anchor of the bowling attack. His experience and performance will be vital for Australia’s success against England, particularly after he participated in only two of the five Tests last summer during Australia’s Border-Gavaskar trophy victory.
Hazlewood shared his thoughts on maintaining his form and fitness: “The intensity is obviously right up there, now it’s probably just getting a bit of volume in the legs.” He wanted to reiterate that he’s been controlling his off-field business which has allowed him to focus on his on-field business.
“Doing a lot of things off the field well, doing things on the field well, so I couldn’t be happier with how it’s going.” – Josh Hazlewood
His recent performances in One Day Internationals (ODIs) raised eyebrows as well — including Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s — that the young 22-year-old star was scoring runs with aggression. As Hazlewood gets ready for the Ashes he’ll be looking to take his white-ball form straight into the Test arena.
Hazlewood acknowledges that if he can successfully navigate the upcoming matches and training sessions, he can establish a solid foundation for future performances. “If I get through everything, it’s probably the template moving forward to put myself in the best position to play as many games as possible.”
Hazlewood has one eye on a Sheffield Shield final and an Ashes series showdown. Fans and analysts alike are longing to see him help lead Australia back to cricketing glory. His leadership and skills will be vital in helping to direct the team’s attack on the pitch.
