Josh Hazlewood Set to Return for Ashes 3rd Test, Pat Cummins Practices with Pink Ball

Josh Hazlewood is back in training and may play later in the Ashes series. He missed the first Test against England because of a hamstring injury he got before the series started. Pat Cummins is also preparing to return and was seen practicing with the pink ball ahead of the second Ashes Test, which will be a day-night match.

According to ESPNCricinfo, Josh Hazlewood was seen bowling with the red ball in the nets at Cricket Central in Sydney. It is unlikely that he will play in the 2nd Ashes Test in Brisbane, but he is expected to return for the 3rd Test in Adelaide.

Hazlewood Likely to Return for Ashes 3rd Test

Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald said on Monday that the team hopes Hazlewood will be available later in the series. “I know he’ll be available at some point during the series. We still have some early rehab to go through to see where he can fit in, but we expect him to play a part in the series,” McDonald said.

Meanwhile, Cummins was seen practicing with the pink-ball, hinting that he might be ready for the AUS vs ENG 2nd Test. Coach McDonald said the Australian captain is almost done with his rehab.

“It looked like he’s getting close to finishing his recovery. He was bowling with good intensity and speed. That’s really positive. Now, it’s about making sure his muscles and soft tissue are strong enough and not rushing him too much,” McDonald added.