Australian star Josh Hazlewood has made himself available for all five Tests in the upcoming Ashes. His comments came after an impressive bowling display in the first ODI against India in Perth on Sunday (October 19).
The right-arm pacer got off to a solid start by dismissing Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer at 45/4. Australia conceded only 20 runs in 7 overs by India in 7 overs to take the lead in the three-match series.
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Hazlewood missed a number of tests in each home season
Speaking after his brilliant display, Josh Hazlewood said the same lively Perth pitch was rolled out for the start of the Ashes. With captain Pat Cummins set to miss at least the first Test of the series, Australia’s fate will depend a lot on whether Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc can fit in alongside Scott Boland.
Since 2021, the fast bowler has missed a number of Tests in each home season – until 2023-24 when he featured in all home Tests against Pakistan and the West Indies.
Perth always offers nice bounce and pace – Josh Hazlewood
“Sure,” he said. “Perth have always offered us some great bounce and pace which has served us well in the past, especially with bowlers who all offer something different.
“It was a nice start. (My) Rhythm felt good off the back of New Zealand. Everything feels good at the moment, a nice way to start the build-up,” he said.
Ashes with Josh Hazlewood eyes:
Speaking afterwards, Josh Hazlewood said his body felt great in his body as he expressed his desire to play in all five Tests against England. Having cut first Odi several times, Hazlewood said it was something of a relief to get through without any injury setbacks.
“My body feels great at the moment, I’m very confident of getting through it all without any drama,” the Aussie star said.
“These games are always flawless so quickly. It’s about trying to stay hot and in the moment, especially when the breaks are like that.”
Hazlewood would be keen to deliver with the ball in the second ODI as well, looking to win a series against Australia. The penultimate match of the series is scheduled to take place in Adelaide on Thursday.
