Adelaide, Nov 30 (UNI) Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the second Test against India, starting here on December 6, due to a low-grade left side injury.
In Hazlewood's absence, uncapped pacers Sean Abbott and Brendan Doggett have been added to the squad. The two have earned their callups following impressive performances in this year’s Sheffield Shield.
Australia already has 35-year-old right-arm pacer Scott Boland in the squad, who could play a key role in the pink-ball Test.
The fast-bowling changes come on the heels of Australia's earlier inclusion of allrounder Beau Webster, who was added to the squad as cover for Mitchell Marsh earlier this week.
Hazlewood's injury marks a significant blow for the Australian team, as the 32-year-old was one of their standout performers in the opening Test in Perth. He picked up five wickets for 57 runs across 34 overs, including a stellar four-wicket haul in the first innings that saw India dismissed for just 150 runs.
This is the first Test Hazlewood will miss since the Headingley match in the Ashes series last year and his first absence in a home Test against India.
India currently leads the five-match series 1-0 after a commanding 295-run victory in Perth. The day-night Test will be crucial for the hosts as they aim to level the series.
The match also holds significance in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship, with both teams vying for valuable points in the standings.
UNI BDN ARN