Josh Hazlewood Returns: Australia’s Playing XI for the Gabba Test Against India

As the cricketing world watches the enthralling series between Australia and India unfold, a key change in Australia’s lineup for the third Test at the Gabba has grabbed headlines. Josh Hazlewood, the towering pacer, makes his much-anticipated return to the playing XI after recovering from a side strain that sidelined him during the second Test in Adelaide. This change comes as captain Pat Cummins looks to field a near-full-strength side to seize the series lead.

Pat Cummins, speaking to the press, confirmed Hazlewood’s inclusion, emphasizing the bowler’s successful recovery. “Josh comes back in … had no hiccups,” Cummins said.

“Had a really good bowl yesterday, had another good bowl in Adelaide a few days previous. Him and the medical team are super confident.”

Despite Scott Boland’s impressive five-wicket haul in the second Test, the decision to replace him with Hazlewood highlights the depth of Australia’s pace bowling unit. Cummins acknowledged Boland’s consistency and lamented the tough call:

“Whenever he’s played, he’s been fantastic. A shame for Scotty, but there’s still a lot of cricket left this summer. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get another crack at some point.”

Preparations in Full Swing

Hazlewood’s readiness was on full display during an intense training session at Allan Border Field, where he bowled alongside Mitchell Starc. Supervised by bowling coach Dan Vettori, Hazlewood impressed as he bowled to squad members Josh Inglis and Queensland’s Lachlan Hearne. Explaining why they trained away from the main group, Cummins stated, “We’ve done it most years … It’s only about 25 meters at the back of the Gabba (nets), whereas we can get full run-ups at AB Field.”

Australia’s XI for the Gabba

With Hazlewood’s return, Australia fields a formidable XI for the third Test:

• Usman Khawaja
• Nathan McSweeney
• Marnus Labuschagne
• Steve Smith
• Travis Head
• Mitch Marsh
• Alex Carey (wk)
• Pat Cummins ©
• Mitchell Starc
• Nathan Lyon
• Josh Hazlewood

The squad combines experienced campaigners and emerging talents, setting the stage for a thrilling contest at Brisbane’s iconic Gabba.

A Series Decider Looms

With the series level at 1–1, the stakes couldn’t be higher. India will undoubtedly look to counter Australia’s pace attack and continue their spirited performances. For Australia, the return of Hazlewood adds another weapon to their arsenal as they aim to regain the series lead and move closer to securing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Don’t Just Watch the Game, Live It with CrownPlay

As the action unfolds at the Gabba, why not elevate your cricketing experience? CrownPlay, the premier sports fantasy platform, lets you create your dream team, make predictions, and compete for exciting prizes.

https://www.crownplay.in/en-us/register

With Hazlewood back in action and Cummins leading the charge, there’s no better time to dive into the thrill of cricket. Sign up on CrownPlay today and bring your cricket knowledge to life!