Josh Hazlewood to Miss Second Ashes Test, Pat Cummins' Return Uncertain

Hazlewood's Absence in Brisbane Test

Pacer Josh Hazlewood will not participate in the upcoming second Ashes Test in Brisbane, which features a pink-ball format. However, team management remains hopeful that he could contribute later in the series. The match is scheduled to commence on December 29.

Hazlewood was sidelined from the Perth opener due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Sheffield Shield. He will join the team in Brisbane to continue his rehabilitation, with head coach Andrew McDonald expressing optimism about his availability later in the series.

Coach Provides Update on Hazlewood's Recovery

McDonald commented on Hazlewood's recovery, stating, "He is currently in the first week of his rehab. I don't think we need to provide an update just yet. As he progresses and we establish some timelines, we will be able to share more information."

"I am confident he will be available at some point during the series. We still have some early rehab to navigate before determining how he might fit into the series, but we expect him to participate," he added.

Cummins' Return Decision Pending

The two-day conclusion of the Perth Test has altered Cummins' bowling schedule. He had been training intensely leading up to the series opener. Originally, he was set to bowl on the fourth day of the Test, but after returning to Sydney, this has been postponed by a day.

Regarding Cummins, McDonald mentioned that a decision on his participation in the Brisbane Test will be made closer to the match. If Cummins plays and the Test lasts the full five days, there will be an eight-day interval before the third Test in Adelaide. Cummins had previously indicated that while consecutive Tests could be demanding, shorter matches might work to his advantage.

Rehabilitation Progress for Cummins

McDonald noted, "Once we see him again, we can better understand what his return might look like. For those who observed him in Perth, I mentioned earlier that he would be back bowling, and people might wonder why he isn't playing yet."

"He appeared to be nearing the end of his rehabilitation. The intensity and ball speed were evident. There are many positives, but we must ensure we build resilience in his soft tissue to avoid rushing his return," he added.

"This will be a genuine discussion as we approach the Test match. The decision may come down to the wire, but his return program is nearing completion, which is very encouraging," he concluded.