Australia star Josh Hazlewood has made himself available for all five Tests of the upcoming Ashes. His comments came after his brilliant bowling performance in the first ODI against India in Perth on Sunday (October 19).
The right-arm fast bowler gave the hosts a solid start by dismissing Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer cheaply, taking India’s score to 45/4. He conceded only 20 runs from his 7 overs, as Australia defeated India by 7 wickets to take the lead in the three-match series.
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Hazlewood missed several tests in every domestic season
Speaking after his brilliant performance, Josh Hazlewood said he wants the same lively Perth pitch for his Ashes debut. With captain Pat Cummins set to miss at least the first Test of the series, Australia’s fate will largely depend on whether Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc can remain fit alongside Scott Boland.
Since 2021, the fast bowler has missed multiple Tests in every domestic season except one – when he featured in all home Tests against Pakistan and West Indies in 2023–24.
Perth always offers some good bounce and pace – Josh Hazlewood
When Hazlewood was asked if he wanted a similar pitch for the first Ashes Test, he said, “Definitely.” “Perth always offers some good bounce and pace which has worked well for us in the past, especially with our bowlers who all offer something different.
“It was a good start. [My] New Zealand were looking good with momentum behind them. Everything looks good at the moment, it’s a good way to start building [to the Ashes]”he adds.
Josh Hazlewood eyes full Ashes:
Speaking further, Josh Hazlewood said his ‘body feels great right now’ as he expressed his desire to play in all five Test matches against England. While the first ODI was hampered by rain on several occasions, Hazlewood also said that it was a relief to finish the match without any injuries.
“My body is feeling great at the moment, I am confident of recovering from all five without any drama,” the Australian star said.
“Those games are always short for fast players. It’s a balance of trying to stay hot and being in the moment, especially when the breaks are short like that.”
With Australia eyeing a series win, Hazlewood will be eager to perform well with the ball in the second ODI as well. The final match of the series is scheduled to be played in Adelaide on Thursday.
