Australia dealt blow as injured Josh Hazlewood set to miss Sri Lanka series-OxBig News Network

Australia have been dealt a significant blow as senior pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to miss the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka due to injury. Hazlewood, who played just two Tests in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, will not be part of the touring squad when it is announced later this week, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Hazlewood has been hampered by a calf injury and a side strain, which disrupted his participation in the India series. This injury will see him sidelined for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on January 29. Hazlewood’s absence adds to the list of Australian absentees, as captain Pat Cummins will also miss the tour, leaving a notable gap in the fast-bowling ranks.

With an already packed schedule ahead, including the World Test Championship final against South Africa in June and the Ashes series next summer, Hazlewood’s recovery will be crucial. However, his absence in the Sri Lanka series gives the team more time to focus on his fitness without the pressure of immediate competition.

While Hazlewood’s fitness will be key for future fixtures, the rise of Scott Boland, who has been outstanding, brings a degree of uncertainty over the team’s first-choice attack. Even if Hazlewood were fully fit, he would face stiff competition from Mitchell Starc and Boland for a spot in the starting XI.

Australia’s place in the World Test Championship final has already been secured, which allows the selectors to be patient with Hazlewood’s recovery. The team will likely focus on building a strong squad for the longer-term fixtures.

In Sri Lanka, Nathan Lyon, who bowled an incredible 64 overs in Australia’s last Test in Galle three years ago, is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming series. Despite dealing with a hip issue, Cricket Australia is confident that Lyon will be fit for both Tests. He could be joined by off-spinner Todd Murphy or left-arm orthodox spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, both of whom are strong contenders to join the squad.

Boland, along with Mitchell Starc, will lead the fast-bowling attack in Sri Lanka, while Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, and Michael Neser will be additional options for the 16-man squad. The selectors are expected to finalise the touring squad by Thursday.