Aussie Star Josh Hazlewood Exits T20 Series Early
Josh Hazlewood, 34, has pulled out of the final match of Australia's Twenty20 series against India to focus on the upcoming Ashes. After a stunning performance at the MCG, where he took 3 wickets for 13 runs in four overs, he will take a brief break before returning to represent NSW in the Sheffield Shield.
Hazlewood’s Impact and Upcoming Role
Having battled multiple injuries in recent years, Hazlewood’s experience will be crucial for Australia’s Ashes campaign. With captain Pat Cummins sidelined for the first Test and possibly longer, Hazlewood and pace partner Mitchell Starc are expected to shoulder more responsibility in the bowling attack.
Sheffield Shield Match Preview
Hazlewood and Starc will both feature in the Sheffield Shield starting November 10, facing Scott Boland and Victoria’s pace lineup.
Confidence Going Into the Ashes
Hazlewood expressed confidence in his white-ball form, aiming to maintain it throughout the Ashes series. Indian batsman Abhishek Sharma shared a sense of relief upon learning that Hazlewood would miss the remaining T20 games.
“I was watching him in the ODIs,” Sharma commented with a smile when told about Hazlewood’s absence.
Summary
Josh Hazlewood’s early exit from the T20 series highlights his strategic focus on the Ashes, where his role will be pivotal given key injuries in the Australian squad.
Would you like the tone to be more formal or conversational?