IND vs AUS: Josh Hazlewood to miss remainder of India vs Australia T20I series
As the India vs Australia T20I series moves to Hobart for the third match, the visiting Indian team will have one less concern in the Australian lineup. Veteran pacer Josh Hazlewood has decided to skip the remainder of the series to focus on his domestic cricket commitments. The decision comes as part of Hazlewood’s preparation for the upcoming Ashes series, which begins on November 21 in Perth. Hazlewood’s absence will undoubtedly impact Australia’s bowling attack, as he has been a key figure known for his accuracy, control, and ability to exploit even the slightest movement off the pitch. His withdrawal provides an opportunity for Australia to test their bench strength and give younger pacers valuable international exposure ahead of a busy cricketing calendar.
For India, Hazlewood’s unavailability offers a slight relief, as his disciplined new-ball spells have often troubled their top order. However, the hosts still boast a formidable pace attack, ensuring that the contest remains competitive. With the series finely poised, both sides will aim to make tactical adjustments and build momentum heading into the remaining fixtures. The stage is now set for an exciting clash in Hobart, as India look to capitalize on Australia’s depleted bowling lineup.
“Heading home tomorrow. I’ll have a week to prepare for the Shield game against Victoria, then we head to Perth for the first Test. It’s important to get that red ball rhythm in, bowl consecutive overs, spend big days in the field – tick that off before the Test season starts,” stated Australia's premier pacer Josh Hazlewood.
The 34-year-old Josh Hazlewood played a pivotal role in dismantling India’s batting lineup during the T20I clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Delivering one of his finest spells in recent memory, Hazlewood claimed three crucial wickets for just 13 runs in his four-over quota, setting the tone for Australia’s dominance early in the match. His impeccable line and length, combined with subtle seam movement, proved too good for India’s top order.
Hazlewood removed Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma in quick succession, leaving India in deep trouble at 32 for 4 inside the fifth over of the powerplay. His early breakthroughs completely derailed India’s momentum, putting immense pressure on the middle order to rebuild. The spell not only highlighted Hazlewood’s precision and experience but also reaffirmed his status as one of the most dependable new-ball bowlers in world cricket.
“Not a lot different, really. My approach here and there, as always, everything’s improving. I think just playing continuous cricket has helped – we’ve been up north playing a few games, then over in New Zealand, now here, West Indies in the winter… I’ve just been going from one series to the next, playing most of the games, resting when needed. Everything feels in a good place and ready to go,” Hazlewood added.
India and Australia are set to play the remaining three T20I matches of the series in Hobart, Gold Coast, and Brisbane, with the hosts currently holding a 1-0 lead. Australia took the advantage after clinching the second T20I by four wickets, showcasing a strong all-round performance. The series opener in Canberra was unfortunately abandoned due to inclement weather, denying both teams the chance to gain early momentum. As the contest moves forward, India will be eager to bounce back and level the series, while Australia will look to maintain their dominance on home soil. With exciting venues and high stakes ahead, the remaining matches promise intense action and closely fought encounters between two top cricketing sides.
