Josh Hazlewood does not play today against India in the fifth Test in Sydney. Hazlewood has once again been overlooked by the Australian team management as Scott Bolland enjoys an extended stay in the starting XI. Find out why Josh Hazlewood will miss today's Test match against him India.
India stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah won the toss and decided to bat first. “We are looking to bat first. We have played some good cricket. The last match was exciting. The grass does not look hot. We have always learned how to digest defeats. We will look forward to this.”
Hazlewood has been under the radar and doesn't appear to be a perfect fit. Thus, when Australia's starting XI for the Sydney Test was announced, Hazlewood's name was missing from it.
Why isn't Josh Hazlewood playing today?
Josh Hazlewood He reportedly suffered a calf strain after the first Test in Perth. Subsequently, he was rested from the Australian playing XI for the second Test in Adelaide. He was able to return for the third Test in Brisbane but was rested again for the fourth Test at the MCG.
Hazlewood is still recovering from the strain and Australia do not want to tire him out ahead of the crucial Test series against Sri Lanka. Hazlewood has been an outstanding performer for Australia in Tests. In just 72 Tests, Hazlewood has picked up 279 wickets at an impressive average of 24.57.
A must-win game for Australians
Australia They have once again opted to go with right-arm pacer Scott Bolland for the SCG Test. Boland replaced Hazlewood in the 2nd Test where he managed to pick up 5 wickets. He returned to the Australian team for the 4th Test and once again impressed by picking up 6 wickets. Hence, Australia preferred him over Hazlewood, while also ensuring that the latter gets enough rest.
Australia go into the SCG Test with just one change. Tasmania all-rounder Beau Webster has replaced Mitchell Marsh in the team. Marsh was dropped due to poor performance in the series.
The SCG Test is a must-win game for Australians. If Australia wins this match, they will directly reach the final of the World Test Championship. However, if Australia loses, they will have to lose Sri Lanka In at least one of the two tests at their home to qualify.
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