Scotland vs Australia: Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the T20I Series

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the upcoming T20 International series against Scotland due to a calf strain. The injury has ruled him out of the three-match series scheduled to take place at the Grange Cricket Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland, next month. The matches are set to be held on September 4, 6, and 7. In Hazlewood's absence, the Australian team has called up Riley Meredith as his replacement. Meredith will join the squad as Australia looks to maintain their competitive edge in the series. The T20I series against Scotland will be an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills.

Josh Hazlewood out of Scotland vs Australia T20Is

Although Hazlewood will not be participating in the Scotland tour, he is expected to recover in time for the subsequent series against England. Australia is set to face their arch-rivals in a three-match T20I series followed by a five-match ODI series in the United Kingdom. Hazlewood’s return will be crucial for Australia as they aim to perform strongly in these high-profile encounters.

The series against England will be an important test for Australia as they continue their preparation for upcoming major tournaments. Hazlewood's return to full fitness will be closely watched, given his significant role in the Australian bowling attack and his experience in high-stakes matches. As the team adjusts to his absence, the focus will shift to the new squad members to fill the void and contribute effectively.

Riley Meredith, who has been performing exceptionally well for Somerset in the English domestic season, will replace Josh Hazlewood in the Australian squad for the upcoming T20I series against Scotland. Meredith impressed in the T20 Blast, taking 14 wickets at an average of 22.78 and playing a crucial role in Somerset's run to the final. He also claimed six wickets in three One-Day Cup matches, including a standout 4/27 against Middlesex at Lord’s. His last T20I appearance for Australia was in July 2021 against the West Indies.

For the Scotland tour, Australia will rely on seam-bowling options including Riley Meredith, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, and Nathan Ellis. In addition, seam-bowling all-rounders such as Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Marcus Stoinis will provide valuable support when needed. Captain Mitchell Marsh is also available to bowl if fully fit. The spin department will be led by Adam Zampa, with support from uncapped player Cooper Connolly. This blend of pace and spin options aims to ensure Australia remains competitive in the absence of Hazlewood. Josh Hazlewood’s injury is considered to be minor, but it will be interesting to see if Australia takes the risk of including him in the white-ball series against England, given the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy later in the year. Hazlewood was initially the only member of Australia’s formidable fast-bowling trio selected for the full tour of the United Kingdom.

Pat Cummins has been rested for the entire tour, allowing him time to recover and prepare for future engagements. Mitchell Starc, meanwhile, will join the squad just before the ODI series against England, bringing his pace and experience to the team. The decision on Hazlewood’s participation will be closely watched as Australia balances the need for his presence against the potential risks of exacerbating his injury. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy looming, Australia will be keen to ensure their key bowlers, including Hazlewood, are fully fit and ready for the upcoming challenges.