Josh Hazlewood Targets ‘At Least Three’ Ashes Tests
Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler, is eagerly awaiting the selection for the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston, knowing that history might repeat itself. While he understands that playing the entire series is unlikely due to his recent injury record, he would be disappointed if he gets fewer than three opportunities to play.
The competition for a spot in the Australian side is fierce, with Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland vying for a place. Boland’s exceptional performance in the World Test Championship final against India has added to his remarkable start in Test cricket, making the decision even more difficult for the selectors. Hazlewood and Starc were left out of the starting XI four years ago, with James Pattinson and Peter Siddle joining Pat Cummins. However, Hazlewood went on to play the remaining four matches of the series, making a significant impact by taking 20 wickets at an average of 21.85 in the drawn series.
Reflecting on his expectations for the upcoming Ashes, Hazlewood acknowledges that his perspective has changed based on his injury history over the past two years. While he would have previously expected to play all six Tests, he now considers three appearances as a satisfactory outcome and four as a great achievement. However, anything less than three matches would leave him disappointed.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his role, Hazlewood finds comfort in the depth of Australia’s fast bowling resources. Having high-quality options on the bench allows the players to go all out during a match, knowing that there is always someone ready to step in. This situation provides a great advantage for the team and facilitates better decision-making regarding player workload and longevity.
Hazlewood has been cautious in managing his recent injuries, and this approach was evident during the Test Championship final. His limited game time over the past two years, playing only four Test matches, has made him keen to regain his place in the team. The decision to sit out the final was based on avoiding unnecessary risks and ensuring he is fully prepared for the Ashes. Captain Pat Cummins has expressed his desire to play all six Tests, while Boland believes it will be challenging unless some matches have early finishes. Hazlewood, with his experience and passion, is desperate to reclaim his place but understands the need to balance expectations with the team’s best interests.
Hazlewood’s outstanding record in England speaks for itself, with 222 Test wickets and an average of 23.58. Despite questions about his durability, he remains confident in these conditions and is excited about the challenge posed by England’s batting lineup. Hazlewood believes that the recent improvements made by the English team over the past 18 months will push him and his teammates to perform at their best.
As the Australian bowlers prepare to face England, they aim to devise strategies to counter their batting lineup. While they are familiar with most of the players, Hazlewood found an interesting statistic about Ben Duckett, who has only left eight deliveries in his Test career so far. Hazlewood intends to use this information to their advantage and exploit Duckett’s propensity to play shots.
The Australian bowlers’ plan revolves around maintaining a consistent length of six to eight meters and sticking to their line. They have observed that despite England’s ability to score quickly, the batsmen often get out in similar ways. Therefore, Hazlewood emphasizes the importance of adhering to their game plan throughout the series, even if England manages to score runs off them.
As Hazlewood eagerly awaits the first Ashes Test, he remains focused, determined, and aware of the challenges that lie ahead. With a talented pool of fast bowlers at their disposal, Australia aims to reclaim the urn and continue their success against England in the historic series.
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