Hazlewood last featured in a Test against the West Indies in July 2025 before a hamstring injury ruled him out of the Ashes. An Achilles problem later delayed his return further, extending his absence from the longest format.
The Australian quick has since put in the hard yards in recent weeks, completing a series of demanding bowling simulations designed to replicate the workload of Test cricket as he prepares for his long-awaited return.
“This is probably the first time we’ve actually had a lead-in to a Test without any cricket in terms of games,” he said.
“Leading into other Test series and Test matches, you’re playing T20, you’re playing one-dayers, you’re travelling, so it’s tough to fit those bowling sessions in. This has been tailor-made for a Test match, which should work out well.”