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Hazlewood ruled out; replacement announced in Australia's updated squad for 1st Ashes Test

Debashis Sarangi

Hazlewood out of AUS vs ENG 1st Ashes Test [Source: AFP]Hazlewood out of AUS vs ENG 1st Ashes Test [Source: AFP]

In a massive setback for Australia, Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England due to a hamstring injury. The ace speedster, who was earlier declared fit to play the Ashes opener, is set to find himself on the sidelines due to a fresh injury concern. 

Hazlewood injury could lead to Doggett's debut; Neser  added to Australian squad

As revealed by ESPNCricinfo as well as 7News, Josh Hazlewood has been sidelined from the first Test between Australia and England at Perth Stadium. The speedster consistentluy complained of tightness in his hamstring, forcing the think tank to exclude him from their plans for the Ashes opener. 

While Hazlewood's injury could result in an unexpected debut for Brendan Doggett, the experienced Michael Neser has also been added to the Australian squad, confirmed Cricket.com.au. 

Australia's updated squad for 1st Ashes Test

Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

Earlier, Australian captain Pat Cummins had already been ruled out of the first Test due to back injury. Sean Abbott sustained a hamstring injury which sidelined him from the Ashes opener. In such a scenario, Hazlewood's injury comes as a massive blow for the Aussies, as they continue to search for their third pacer for the highly-anticipated contest. 

Brendan Doggett hasn't played a Test for Australia; however his recent form which saw him bag 13 wickets in just four Sheffield Shield innings could prompt the Australian think tank to pick him as Starc and Scott Boland's seam-bowling partner at Perth. On the contrary, Michael Neser will be a more logical choice, considering how good he has been as an all-rounder in the Australian domestic circuit.