Ashes 2021-22: Josh Hazlewood unlikely to return for Boxing Day Test

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is unlikely to play the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Hazlewood suffered a side strain ahead of the second Test and was ruled out of the game. However, he was hopeful of returning to the playing XI in Melbourne. But it seems he is still a bit stiff and has not regained his peak fitness.

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Ahead of the third Test, the entire Australian team participated in a hard training session. However, Hazlewood didn't bowl a single ball which was a big enough hint that the pacer will not be returning in Melbourne. An official confirmation on the same is yet to come from the Australian camp.

Meanwhile, Pat Cummins, who missed the second Test after being identified as a close contact of the COVID-19 patient, has joined the squad and participated in the session. In all probability, he will be back to lead the team in Melbourne. Australia included Jhye Richardson and Michael Neser as replacements for Hazlewood and Cummins respectively. With Cummins back, Neser is likely to pave way for the skipper.

There were a few concerns regarding the fitness of Cameron Green as well. The all-rounder didn't bowl on the final day of the Adelaide Test. However, he revealed that he is fine and good to go in Melbourne.

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“I didn’t have any conversations with ‘Smudge’. I was completely fine, ready to go, it’s just we were in a really good position,” Green said.

“They just thought we could get through the game without bowling me and keep me a bit more fresh for this game. The boys bowled beautifully, credit to them.”

Australia have been brilliant in the series, comprehensively winning both their games. A win or even a draw in Melbourne will ensure that the Ashes urn stays in Australia.