Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of Australia’s three-match T20I series in Scotland due to a low-grade calf strain sustained during a training session in Sydney. Replacing Hazlewood is Riley Meredith, who makes a return to the international stage after a three-year hiatus. Meredith, who previously played five T20Is in 2021, will bring his pace back to the squad. Alongside Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc will also miss the tour but is expected to return for the ODIs against England. Pat Cummins and Spencer Johnson are also absent, with Mitchell Marsh set to captain the side in their absence.
Hazlewood and Starc Out for Scotland Series
Josh Hazlewood has been sidelined from the three-match T20I series against Scotland due to a low-grade right calf strain sustained during training in Sydney. The injury will keep Hazlewood out of action, but he is expected to return for the white-ball series against England later this year. The Australian fast bowler’s absence is a significant blow to the team, given his experience and skill in the shorter format.
Mitchell Starc will also miss the Scotland tour, adding to Australia’s bowling woes. However, Starc is set to return for the ODIs against England, which commence on September 19. With both Hazlewood and Starc out, Australia’s bowling lineup will need to adapt and find new ways to contain their opponents in the T20I series.
Riley Meredith and Team Changes
Riley Meredith has been called up to replace Hazlewood for the Scotland series. This call-up marks Meredith’s return to international cricket after a three-year hiatus. Having previously played five T20Is in 2021, Meredith brings valuable experience and pace to the squad, having taken eight wickets in his earlier appearances.
Mitchell Marsh will captain the Australian team in the UK tour, stepping into a leadership role with Pat Cummins taking a break to prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy and Pakistan’s white-ball series. The squad also faces challenges with Spencer Johnson’s absence due to a side strain, requiring other players to step up and contribute significantly in his stead.
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