ICC World Test Championship: Australia’s Pace Spearhead Sidelined for WTC Final, Neser Named as Replacement
Josh Hazlewood's injury has led to Michael Neser being called up as his replacement in the squad for the WTC 2023 Final.
In an unfortunate turn of events, Australia’s pace bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the World Test Championship final against India, which is set to begin on June 7th at the Oval.
To fill the void left by Hazlewood, Michael Neser has been called up to join Australia’s squad for the marquee clash. Hazlewood’s availability was hindered by a side injury that resurfaced during his participation in the recent Indian Premier League.
JUST IN: Michael Neser has replaced Josh Hazlewood in Australia's squad for the #WTC23 Final starting on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/AcUHcEYK57
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) June 4, 2023
Hazlewood had been pushing himself hard in the hopes of featuring in the WTC final, but he has now been replaced by Michael Neser in the 15-man squad. However, it is likely that Boland will be included as Australia’s third pacer, alongside Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.
“Josh was very, very close to being given the green light but we are cognisant that our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off test match for us,” chief of selectors George Bailey said on Sunday.
“This will give Josh an ideal preparation leading into Edgbaston. With six test matches in a little over seven weeks we will need all of our fast bowling assets,”Bailey said referring to the Ashes series against England beginning on June 16.
Australia’s squad for WTC 2023 final:
Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Michael Neser, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Josh Inglis, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner.
