Australia’s Josh Hazlewood bowled out the T20I series against Scotland; replacement announced

Australiaan experienced fast bowler, Josh Hazlewoodhe was dropped from the upcoming three-match T20I series against them In Scotland due to a calf strain when he was thrown into the net on August 20. The decision to rest Hazlewood is a precautionary measure, with Australia’s team management determined to ensure his availability for the long and difficult summer ahead. Although he will miss the series against Scotland, Hazlewood is expected to be fit for the T20I and ODI series against them. In Englandstarting on September 11.

Returning to the national side

In the absence of Hazlewood, who is 27 years old Riley Meredith was named as his replacement for the T20I series. Meredith, who last played a T20I for Australia in 2021, is making a comeback after a gap of three years. When he last appeared against the The West Indieshe scored 57 runs in his four overs, taking one wicket. Apart from this, Meredith’s recent performances on England’s domestic circuit have earned him a call-up to the national side. He was in fine form, particularly with Somerset in the T20 Blast, where he took 14 wickets at 22.78, playing a key role in Somerset’s run to the final. Additionally, he took six wickets in three One-Day Cup matches, including a standout 4 for 27 against Middlesex at Lord’s.

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Impact of Josh Hazlewood’s injury on Australia’s pace attack

Hazlewood’s injury comes as a setback to Australia’s attack, especially following an earlier left-hand injury. Spencer Johnsonwho took a side strain while playing The Oval Invincibles in The Hundred 2024. Johnson’s injury had decimated Australia’s fast selection, making Hazlewood’s absence all the more important. However, the inclusion of Meredith, alongside other pacers like Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green again Marcus Stoinisgives Australia a different pace and skill attack for the series against Scotland.

A chance to shine against Scotland

With Mitchell Starc again Pat Cummins rested, and Hazlewood sidelined, Meredith has a good chance to prove himself in the national team. Meredith’s recent performances on the English pitch have shown promise, and he will look to carry that form into the T20I series against Scotland. His ability to generate pace and take wickets at crucial times could be crucial for Australia as they aim to maintain their dominance in the T20 format. The series against Scotland, which starts on September 4 in Edinburgh, will be an important platform for Meredith to prove his mettle and secure a permanent place in the Australian bowling order.

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