Ashes blow: Hazelwood ruled out, joins Cummins on injury list

Paceman Josh Hazlewood was been ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth after a follow-up scan confirmed a hamstring strain, dealing Australia a major setback just days before the series begins.

In parallel news, Mike Atherton discussed the impact of a fit Mark Wood on Englands chances.

He picked up the injury while bowling for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield, and although early scans were encouraging, later imaging revealed a low-grade strain that prevents him from travelling with the squad.

Michael Neser has been drafted in as cover, adding to Australia’s mounting concerns with captain Pat Cummins also sidelined for the opener.

Hazlewood’s absence removes a key pillar of Australia’s pace attack and shifts greater responsibility onto Mitchell Starc and the remaining quicks as the Ashes build-up takes an unexpected hit.

Nov 2025