‘Hazlewood’s one of the best bowlers in the world’, says Australia assistant coach Vettori

Australia assistant coach Daniel Vettori has lauded Josh Hazlewood as “one of the best bowlers in the world,” while expressing disappointment over the pacer’s untimely injury that could sideline him for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India. Hazlewood’s setback comes as a significant blow to Australia’s hopes of securing the Test series victory.

Hazlewood, who bowled just one over on Tuesday before reporting a calf issue during the warm-up, was taken off the field for further assessment, according to Cricket Australia. The experienced 33-year-old pacer had recently returned from a side strain that kept him out of Australia’s 10-wicket win in Adelaide. Speaking after day four’s play, Vettori admitted Hazlewood’s injury was tough for both the bowler and the team.

“He’s just pretty despondent. He gave it a good crack, but it’s unfortunate for him, especially after working so hard to recover from his last injury. He’s one of the best bowlers in the world, so it certainly affects the team,” said Vettori.

Hazlewood’s absence is likely to open the door for Scott Boland, who impressed in the Adelaide Test, to return for the fourth Test at the MCG. Vettori praised Boland’s consistency as a reliable backup for Australia.

“Boland speaks for himself. The way he bowled in Adelaide and every time he’s been called upon, particularly in Australian conditions, he’s been outstanding. It seems logical that he will step up,” he added.

The third Test has seen a spirited fightback from India after a challenging start. Australia opted to bat first after winning the toss but faced early struggles. On day two, India reduced the visitors to 75/3 with quick dismissals of Usman Khawaja (21), Nathan McSweeney (9), and Marnus Labuschagne (12). However, a 241-run partnership between Steve Smith (101) and Travis Head (152) turned the match in Australia’s favor. Jasprit Bumrah’s impressive spell (5/72) eventually ended the stand, triggering a mini-collapse. Australia still finished strongly at 405/7 by the close of day two.

On day three, Alex Carey (70) and Mitchell Starc (18) carried Australia to a total of 445 in 117.1 overs. Jasprit Bumrah shone for India with figures of 6/76, while Mohammed Siraj picked up two wickets, and Nitish Kumar Reddy and Akash Deep claimed one each.

India’s first innings got off to a disastrous start as Yashasvi Jaiswal (4), Shubman Gill (1), Virat Kohli (3), and Rishabh Pant (9) fell cheaply. However, KL Rahul (33*) provided some resistance to end day three unbeaten. India resumed on day four determined to avoid the follow-on. Rahul went on to score 84 off 139 balls, including eight fours, while Ravindra Jadeja contributed 77 off 123 balls with seven fours and a six. A late fightback, including a crucial 39-run partnership between Jasprit Bumrah (10*) and Akash Deep (27*), helped India reach 252/9 by stumps, trailing by 193 runs.

Hazlewood’s injury adds further uncertainty to Australia’s plans as the series remains finely poised at 1-1, with two matches left. Both teams are competing for a spot in next year’s ICC World Test Championship final, increasing the stakes for the upcoming fourth Test at the MCG.