Hazlewood’s Comeback Stalled by New Injury Setback
Australia’s hopes of bolstering their pace attack were hit again as Josh Hazlewood suffered fresh Achilles soreness during rehabilitation from a recent hamstring strain — an injury blow that now casts serious doubt over his involvement in the upcoming Test match. What was meant to be a return to fitness has instead become another hurdle at a crucial moment for the side.
Having already missed the first two Tests of the series due to a hamstring issue, Hazlewood had entered a careful rehab program and looked on track for a comeback. The newly emerged Achilles problem, however, forces a pause in his recovery schedule, delaying his return to running and bowling by at least a week. This setback weakens Australia’s seam-bowling depth and complicates the selectors’ plans ahead of the next match.
Rehabilitation Progress Halted by New Complaint
Hazlewood had been steadily working his way back through a structured rehabilitation program following the hamstring strain. His progress included light training sessions and gradually building toward bowling readiness — a path that could have returned him to the Test squad soon.
But during recent sessions, he reported discomfort in his Achilles tendon. Although assessments describe the issue as “low-grade,” medical staff have decided to pause his training regimen. As a result, running and bowling activities are postponed indefinitely, putting his return to full fitness on hold.
Impact on Australia’s Bowling Resources
With Hazlewood sidelined once more, Australia’s pace attack faces increased pressure. The pool of available fast bowlers is already thin, and his absence further limits tactical flexibility and the rotation of bowlers.
This constrained depth could force reliance on less experienced players or heavier workloads for the remaining bowlers. In a series where bowling strength and consistency are vital, this scenario presents a serious challenge for team management.
Tough Decisions Ahead
As the next Test approaches, the Australian camp faces difficult choices. They must decide whether to wait for Hazlewood’s full recovery — risking further delay — or proceed with a restructured attack based on the currently fit bowlers.
Both options carry significant risk. For Hazlewood, recurring soft-tissue problems raise longer-term concerns about durability, especially in a schedule demanding both speed and endurance from pace bowlers.
What Comes Next
Selectors and medical staff will closely monitor Hazlewood’s condition in the coming days to evaluate whether he can resume training soon. Until then, plans may have to be finalized without him.
If he remains unavailable, the upcoming Test could see Australia fielding a seam attack lacking one of its most experienced pacers — a prospect that might test the team’s resilience and capacity under pressure.
