Sydney, Sep 18 (IANS) Young fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was Saturday ruled out of the Australian squad for the tour of India after he suffered a back injury during practice.
Cricket Australia (CA) medical staff confirmed that Hazlewood will not be part of the team as he has developed the early stages of a low back bone stress injury.
The National Selection Panel (NSP) announced Hazlewood’s Blues teammate Mitchell Starc and Victorian James Pattinson will act as standby players for Hazlewood.
‘During the past week, Josh developed low back pain while bowling in preparation for the India tour,’ said Australian physiotherapist Alex Kountouris.
‘His symptoms were consistent with a low back bone stress injury and scans have confirmed the early stages of a low back stress fracture.
‘As such, he has been withdrawn from the Test series, as he will require a period of rest from bowling to allow the bone stress to resolve. He will be monitored by New South Wales and Cricket Australia medical staff to determine his return to cricket,’ said Kountouris.
Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Hazlewood’s injury is disappointing but it does create a good opportunity for the other promising players.
‘The injury to Josh is obviously very disappointing as he is one of the young fast bowlers we have identified as having an important role to play in Australia’s future. At the same time, it does create opportunity for another two young fast bowlers who we are equally sure will make the most of the opportunities they are presented,’ said Hilditch.
‘Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson are two fast bowlers who made a significant impression during their time at the Cricket Australia Centre of Excellence this year.
Hazlewood made his One Day International debut against England earlier this year.
