Hazlewood Ruled Out of 2nd Ashes Test Match, Cummins Brisbane Return in Doubt

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Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of 2nd Ashes Test Match: Big news is coming for the Australian team. Experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has officially been ruled out of the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. He also missed the first Test of the series in Perth due to a hamstring injury.

Although Hazlewood's initial scans revealed no major damage, he is not fit enough for the upcoming match.

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Rehab and return expected

The 34-year-old fast bowler will soon join the Australian team in Brisbane to continue his rehabilitation. Head coach Andrew McDonald is confident that Hazlewood will be available for selection for the final three matches of the series. McDonald indicated that an exact timeline will be announced only after his initial rehab is complete.

Will Pat Cummins play the second Test match?

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While Hazlewood is reported to be out, captain Pat Cummins is inching closer to a return. It is likely that Cummins could rejoin the team at the Gabba as soon as next week.

The fact that the first Test ended in two days has slightly altered his planned bowling schedule. Cummins was originally scheduled to bowl on the fourth day of the Perth Test. However, after returning to Sydney, this session has been moved up by a day. Despite this change, reports are quite positive about the Australian captain's fitness.

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Final decision on Cummins' fitness 'delayed'

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Coach McDonald, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo, indicated that a final decision on Cummins' participation in this day-night Test will likely be made later.

The second Test, a crucial pink-ball match, is scheduled to begin at the Gabba on December 4.

• Adequate recovery time: Even if Cummins plays this match and the second match lasts the full five days, there will still be an eight-day gap before the third Adelaide Test, which is sufficient for recovery.
• Positive signs: McDonald confirmed that Cummins looked strong during training in Perth ahead of the first Test. The intensity and pace of his bowling were very promising.
• Discussions with the medical team: The current priority is to ensure that the tissues strengthen so that there is no risk of rushing him onto the field. The coach noted that there will be "real discussions" with the medical team closer to the start of the match, and a final decision could be made at the last minute.

This process is almost complete, which is extremely encouraging for the Australian team. Australia will certainly look to further consolidate its lead in this mega-series at the Gabba.

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