Major Fitness Boost for Australia Ahead of Crucial Ashes Clash
In a development that will hearten Australian cricket fans and concern their English counterparts, the formidable bowling duo of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were both seen back in action during a net session on Tuesday. The sight at Cricket NSW's headquarters in Sydney Olympic Park signals a significant positive turn for the Australian camp as they prepare for the second Ashes Test.
Cummins Gets to Grips with the Pink Ball
Australian Test captain Pat Cummins, 32, was not only bowling but was also spotted clutching the pink ball that will be a central feature of the upcoming day-night contest. This session serves as a crucial preparatory step for the match scheduled for December 4 at the Gabba in Brisbane, where the unique conditions of a day-night Test will come into play.
Hazlewood Quashes Injury Fears
Perhaps even more encouraging was the presence of Josh Hazlewood. The 34-year-old paceman is being carefully managed back to full fitness after a hamstring issue forced him from the field during a recent Sheffield Shield match. Fears had begun to circulate that his injury could be a more serious tendon problem, with journalist Peter Lalor even speculating on Channel Seven that Hazlewood might not be seen again in the series. However, the image of Hazlewood sending down deliveries has done much to dispel those concerns, offering hope that his experience and skill will be available to the Australian side again soon.
Australian coach Andrew McDonald has also moved to calm the speculation, stating, "I don't know where that speculation began, that's not the information I have... I know that he'll be available at some point." With 295 Test wickets to his name, Hazlewood's return to full fitness is a top priority for the team holding a 1-0 series lead following their thrilling eight-wicket victory in the first Test at Perth.
