Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has left the field during the third Test against India in Brisbane due to calf injury.

Injury forces Josh Hazlewood’s early exit

The unexpected development came after Hazlewood managed to bowl just one over on Day 4 at the Gabba, raising immediate concerns about his availability for the remainder of the game and the rest of the series.

Hazlewood was visibly uncomfortable, grimacing and favouring his calf before deciding to leave the field for further medical evaluation. According to the Australia media reports, Hazlewood had already reported the issue during the morning warm-up session. This has sparked speculation about whether the injury is a recurrence of a previous side strain or an entirely new setback.

The absence of Hazlewood, one of Australia’s premier bowlers, leaves the hosts a bowler short in this crucial encounter. To keep India under pressure, Australia might need a significant reshuffle and have to compensate for the missing firepower in their bowling lineup.

Concerns over Hazlewood’s fitness

Hazlewood’s exit is particularly concerning given his recurring history of injuries, including side strains and other fitness issues that have often kept him off the field. The decision to include him in the playing XI, despite ongoing scrutiny over his fitness, has now come under question. Critics and analysts have pointed out that Australia might have opted for a fully fit alternative like Scott Boland to avoid such mid-match complications.

The Australian management now awaits the results of Hazlewood’s scans to assess the extent of the injury. Should the fast bowler face an extended recovery period, it could deliver a serious blow to Australia’s bowling attack for the remainder of the series. This would prove even more challenging if India builds a strong lead or forces strategic plays like enforcing the follow-on.

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Fans react as Australia faces strategic challenge

Hazlewood’s injury has caused a stir on social media, with fans expressing concern for the bowler’s well-being while also speculating on its impact on Australia’s performance. The loss of an experienced pacer could tilt the balance in India’s favour, especially on a Brisbane pitch that traditionally supports the fast bowlers.

From CA: Josh Hazlewood reported calf awareness in this morning’s warmup. He will be taken for scans to assess the injury. Any updates will be shared in due course.

— Neroli Meadows (@Neroli_Meadows) December 17, 2024

Josh Hazlewood’s injury concerns over the last two years:

Achilles – missed 4 Tests
Side strain – missed 4 Tests
Calf – missed 3 T20Is@SEN_Cricket @1116sen #AUSvIND

— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) December 17, 2024

Further updates on Hazlewood’s condition are expected to be released by the team management soon.

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