Australia received a major boost ahead of the first Ashes Test as Josh Hazlewood was cleared of a hamstring injury. However, fellow quick Sean Abbott has been ruled out after scans confirmed a moderate-grade strain.
Hazlewood Cleared Ahead of Ashes Test in Perth
Hazlewood felt tightness in his right hamstring while bowling during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match at the SCG. Captain Steven Smith advised him to stop immediately and head off the field. Scans later confirmed there was no strain, providing a positive Josh Hazlewood injury update before the Perth Test.
Cricket Australia said Hazlewood will continue training under medical supervision. “He underwent precautionary scans which have cleared him of muscle strain,” CA confirmed. Smith added that Hazlewood’s fitness would be monitored closely but expressed confidence in his recovery.
Sean Abbott Suffers Hamstring Blow
The news was less encouraging for Sean Abbott, who left the field with discomfort in his left hamstring. Scans revealed a moderate injury, ruling him out of the opening Test. His recovery timeline will be determined in the coming weeks.
Before the setback, Abbott had impressed with 4 for 18 against Victoria, reinforcing his value as a back-up pacer. Smith said, “It’s tough for Sean, he’s worked hard to be back in the squad.”
Ashes injury update for Australia 🇦🇺:
— wicketbuzz (@wicketbuzz) November 12, 2025
Sean Abbott is OUT of the first Test (hamstring injury).
Big relief for Josh Hazlewood, though—his precautionary scans came back all clear!
📸:Getty#Ashes #AUSvENG #SeanAbbott #JoshHazlewood #CricketNews #WicketBuzz pic.twitter.com/3VHE7UQaq2
Cummins Nears Return as Pace Options Tested
Skipper Pat Cummins, recovering from a back injury, said Hazlewood appeared in good spirits after the scans. “He was pretty positive, just relieved it wasn’t serious,” Cummins said.
Cummins is targeting a return for the Brisbane Test, bowling at about 90% intensity during training. “We’re building towards the Gabba,” he added.
With Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon also in action at the SCG, Australia’s bowling attack remains strong. If needed, Michael Neser is expected to replace Abbott in the squad.
The Josh Hazlewood injury update brings relief for selectors, with the experienced pacer now set to lead Australia’s pace unit in Perth alongside Starc and Boland.
