Australia issue update on Hazlewood, Abbott injuries
The pace duo were sent for scans after sustaining blows during their Sheffield Shield outing in the lead up to the first Test.
Australia have confirmed that pacer Sean Abbott has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England owing to a moderate grade hamstring injury.
Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood, who was also forced off the pitch after reporting tightness in his right hamstring, underwent precautionary scans which have cleared him of muscle strain.
The duo were featuring in the ongoing Sheffield Shield season ahead of the ICC World Test Championship series opener scheduled for November 21 in Perth.
Abbott’s absence adds to Australia’s injury woes ahead of the much-anticipated opener. The hosts will also be without the services of regular captain Pat Cummins, who had earlier been ruled out of the squad for the Perth Test.
Cummins, who was in attendance during the Sheffield Shield fixture, conceded relief after observing Hazlewood from close quarters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
"Joshy was pretty confident when he walked out, so hopefully shouldn't be too much of an issue," he was quoted by cricket.com.au.
"(Josh) knows his body really well. I think he was a little bit worried, wanted to get it checked out. I only saw him briefly, but he was a bit happier afterwards."
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Australia captain Pat Cummins starred with a sensational six-for to secure as Australia secured a first-innings lead.
Adding to his own recovery from a back injury, Cummins expressed optimism on his road to full recovery as Australia look to retain the coveted trophy and secure vital WTC points.
"(The Gabba) is what we're building towards," Cummins said.
"Hopefully by Perth I'm up there near 100 per cent, and then see where we're at.
"It's still pretty aggressive, going from nothing to trying to get ready for a Test match in four weeks. But we're going to give it a good shot."
The much-awaited five-Test match series will see Australia eyeing to keep the top spot in the WTC Standings. England meanwhile, will be looking to surge up in the nine-team standings after conceding points in the home series against India.
