Australia have received a major boost ahead of the second Ashes Test, with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood spotted bowling for the first time since injuring his hamstring in a Sheffield Shield match.
A day after coach Andrew McDonald dismissed speculation Hazlewood would miss the entire series, the 34-year-old was back on deck at Cricket NSW headquarters in Sydney on Tuesday morning.
Josh Hazlewood bowls at Cricket NSW headquarters on Tuesday. Credit: Getty Images
Hazlewood was joined by regular Test captain Pat Cummins, who bowled with a pink ball – a telling clue ahead of next week’s day-night Test in Brisbane, beginning December 4.
Hazlewood failed to finish the Blues’ most recent Sheffield Shield match against Victoria after pulling up with a hamstring issue.
While Cricket Australia initially played down concerns, he was later ruled out of the opening Test, which Australia won inside two days by eight wickets.
Although Hazlewood, who bowled with a red ball, remains unlikely to feature in Brisbane, his return to bowling is an encouraging sign for a squad still waiting to see whether Cummins will play.
Pat Cummins bowls with a pink ball, a potential pointer to the day-night Test in Brisbane.Credit: Getty Images
The pair bowled in the outdoor nets at Sydney Olympic Park as NSW continued their Shield clash with Tasmania, before completing a short fitness block together.
Cummins has declared himself a chance to play in Brisbane, while McDonald has insisted a decision will not be made until closer to match day.