The devastating news has hit the Australian camp: fast-bowler Josh Hazlewood, a pillar of the pace attack, has been officially ruled out of the entire Ashes series. The recurrence of injury means the Hazlewood Ashes Rule Out is confirmed, dashing his hopes of featuring in the remaining three Tests against England. Coach Andrew McDonald delivered the update on Tuesday, revealing that Hazlewood suffered a fresh Achilles issue during rehabilitation for an earlier hamstring strain, making it impossible for him to achieve match fitness in time.
Losing a bowler of his control and relentlessness is a massive disappointment, even with Australia holding a commanding 2-0 lead. However, this blow is immediately softened by the triumphant return of Captain Pat Cummins. Cummins is fully fit and ready to lead the team in the pivotal Third Test in Adelaide, starting Wednesday, December 17. The skipper’s return restores a critical leader and world-class bowler to the side, injecting a huge wave of confidence to counter the loss of Hazlewood as Australia hunts the series-clinching victory.
The Bittersweet Reality of the Hazlewood Ashes Rule Out
Let’s be honest: the Hazlewood Ashes Rule Out stings. He’s the guy who just puts the ball on a dime, Test after Test, frustrating batters until they crack. The fact that the injury is recurring adds a layer of sadness, reminding fans how brutal the life of a fast bowler can be. Coach McDonald spoke for the fans when he expressed disappointment, confirming Hazlewood’s priority is now a full recovery for the 2026 T20 World Cup, where Australia begins its campaign in February. We’ll miss his presence, but the team’s depth has to step up now.
And step up they will, led by the returning King, Pat Cummins. His presence doesn’t just add wickets; it adds swagger and tactical sharpness. When Cummins walks out, the whole team visibly straightens up. His confirmation for the Adelaide Test is the best possible news to counter the loss of Hazlewood. It means Australia rolls into the day/night Test with its spiritual and tactical leader back in command, ready to unleash the pink ball under the lights, likely alongside the ever-reliable Mitchell Starc and a proven partner like Scott Boland.
Why the Rollercoaster News Matters So Much to Fans
This isn’t just a personnel change; it’s an emotional rollercoaster!
The loss of Hazlewood creates a shared moment of empathy among the fans—it’s tough watching a great player miss out on the biggest stage. However, Cummins’ comeback injects immediate, electric excitement. This is the moment we need our captain most, chasing that series-winning 3-0 lead, and he’s there.
It reminds everyone that while injuries are part of the game, so is the brilliant depth of the current Australian squad. The focus now shifts entirely to the Third Test in Adelaide. With the urn within touching distance, Cummins’ leadership is exactly the ingredient the Aussies need to turn their 2-0 advantage into an unassailable 3-0 victory!
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