Australia‘s skilled quick bowler, Josh Hazlewood, has been dominated out of the upcoming three-match T20I collection in opposition to Scotland on account of a calf pressure sustained whereas bowling within the nets on August 20. The choice to relaxation Hazlewood is a precautionary measure, with the Australian group administration eager to make sure his availability for the lengthy and demanding summer season forward. Though he’ll miss the collection in opposition to Scotland, Hazlewood is anticipated to be match for the T20I and ODI collection in opposition to England, which begins on September 11.
A return to the nationwide aspect
In Hazlewood’s absence, 27-year-old Riley Meredith has been named as his alternative for the T20I collection. Meredith, who final performed a T20I for Australia in 2021, is making a comeback after a three-year hole. Throughout his final look in opposition to the West Indies, he conceded 57 runs in his 4 overs, taking one wicket. Regardless of this, Meredith’s latest performances within the English home circuit have earned him a recall to the nationwide aspect. He has been in advantageous type, notably with Somerset within the T20 Blast, the place he took 14 wickets at a mean of twenty-two.78, taking part in a key function in Somerset’s run to the ultimate. Moreover, he claimed six wickets in three One-Day Cup matches, together with a standout 4 for 27 in opposition to Middlesex at Lord’s.
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The influence of Josh Hazlewood’s damage on Australia’s tempo assault
Hazlewood’s damage comes as a setback to Australia’s tempo assault, particularly following the sooner damage to left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, who picked up a aspect pressure whereas taking part in for Oval Invincibles in The Hundred 2024. Johnson’s damage had already depleted Australia’s fast-bowling choices, making Hazlewood’s absence much more important. Nonetheless, the inclusion of Meredith, alongside different pacers like Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Inexperienced and Marcus Stoinis, offers Australia with a various and succesful tempo assault for the collection in opposition to Scotland.
Alternative to shine in opposition to Scotland
With Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins rested, and Hazlewood sidelined, Meredith has a first-rate alternative to ascertain himself within the nationwide group. Meredith’s latest performances on English pitches have proven promise, and he’ll look to hold that type into the T20I collection in opposition to Scotland. His means to generate tempo and take wickets at essential moments may very well be pivotal for Australia as they intention to keep up their dominance within the T20 format. The collection in opposition to Scotland, beginning on September 4 in Edinburgh, shall be an important platform for Meredith to show his mettle and probably safe a extra everlasting spot in Australia’s fast-bowling lineup.
