Australia Lose Hazlewood for First Ashes Test as Injury List Grows

Australia’s Ashes 2025 build-up took a serious hit on Saturday after Josh Hazlewood joined Pat Cummins on the injury list, ruling him out of the 1st Test against England in Perth. The senior quickly felt discomfort during New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield match against Victoria earlier in the week. Early scans cleared him, but second-round imaging confirmed a hamstring strain and ended his hopes of playing the series opener.

Cricket Australia released a brief statement and confirmed the change in diagnosis. It stated that the updated scan showed clear signs of strain, which left the selectors with no choice but to pull him from the Perth trip. The timing could not be worse for Australia, which was already bracing for Cummins’ absence.

Cummins has not played since a lower-back injury against the West Indies more than three months ago. He continued rehab and targeted the second Test in Brisbane for his comeback. That plan stays in place, but the first match now leaves Australia without the two bowlers who have shaped their red-ball attack for years.

Hazlewood’s withdrawal created immediate concern within the camp. His control with the new ball suits Perth’s pace and bounce, and Australia wanted stability at the top of their attack. Instead, they must reshuffle the group days before the series begins on November 21.

Reserve quick Sean Abbott also sits out after suffering his own injury setback. That forced selectors to bring in Michael Neser on Saturday. Neser has played only two Tests but remains trusted for his accuracy and stamina. He trained well throughout the domestic season and gives Australia a steady option if required.

Starc and Boland Face Increased Responsibility

The situation shifts more responsibility onto Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. Starc carries the new-ball duties now, while Boland steps up as the control bowler. Both are already prepared to play major roles, but the absence of Hazlewood and Cummins increases their workload. The selectors also kept a close watch on Brendan Doggett, who now stands in line for a potential debut. Doggett bowled with rhythm in the Shield and impressed with his pace and carry. If the pitch offers assistance, he becomes a strong chance to feature.

England followed the developments closely. Their batters struggled against Hazlewood’s nagging length in the previous series, and Cummins’ bounce always created early pressure. Their absence changes the tone of the contest. England has arrived with renewed confidence after a productive build-up and knows the opening Test offers a chance to seize early control of the series.

Australia is still backing their attack to hold firm, but the first Test demands quick adjustments. Starc, Boland, and a likely debutant must carry the load while the team waits for Cummins’ return and monitors Hazlewood’s recovery.