Injury Blow To Australia! Josh Hazlewood Faces New Setback in Race for Ashes Comeback

Star Aussie pacer, Josh Hazlewood's chances of featuring in the ongoing Ashes series have taken another hit, with a fresh injury concern surfacing during his rehabilitation.

The right-arm quick, already sidelined due to a hamstring strain, is now dealing with Achilles soreness - a complication that has slowed his recovery and cast further uncertainty over his availability.

Cricket Australia confirmed the development in an official statement, clarifying that the setback isn't considered serious, but will require short-term management. "Josh Hazlewood reported Achilles soreness this week during his rehabilitation from recent hamstring injury," the board stated. "It is a low-grade issue and he is expected to recommence running and bowling next week."

Hazlewood was initially hopeful of pushing for a return in the third Test in Adelaide starting December 17. However, the latest development makes even the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne (December 26-30) and the series finale in Sydney (January 4-8) doubtful.

The seamer sustained his original hamstring injury representing Victoria in the Sheffield Shield. He had resumed controlled bowling drills ahead of the second Test at the Gabba and was nearing a comeback before this fresh obstacle emerged. Unfortunately, injuries have become a recurring theme in Hazlewood's recent career. Since 2022, a mix of side strains, Achilles problems, calf concerns, and now back-to-back hamstring setbacks have limited his presence in Test cricket and disrupted his long-format rhythm.

Despite his absence - and that of injured captain Pat Cummins - Australia's depth has stepped up impressively. Mitchell Starc has led the attack with authority, claiming ten wickets in the series opener and continuing his dominant form in the second Test. Michael Neser, Scott Boland, and Brendan Doggett formed a rare all-seam attack with Starc at the Gabba after Nathan Lyon was left out, helping restrict England to 334 in the first innings.

Cummins, who narrowly missed the second Test return, is expected to rejoin the XI in Adelaide, strengthening an already confident bowling unit.