Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of Pakistan Series

Star Australia pacer, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood will miss the upcoming Test series against Pakistan scheduled at the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to injury.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia (CA) in a handout confirmed that both Hazlewood and Cummins are unlikely to have enough match fitness for the Pakistan Test series in October, this year. The loss of both pacemen will be a massive blow for Australia, who will play their first Test since March.

Australia’s men’s team physiotherapist David Beakley said the duo are unlikely to feature in the Test series. However, they are on track to make a return during the JLT One-Day Cup for New South Wales (NSW).

“Pat and Josh are progressing well from their lumbar bone stress injuries. But are not bowling, so, unfortunately, they don’t have the level of intensity for Test match come October,” Beakley states.

In addition, Beakly seemed optimistic. He believes both the players will be available for the One-day Internationals against South Africa leading to the Indian Test series.

“Barring any setbacks, we are hopeful that Pat and Josh will return via the back-end of the JLT One-Day Cup. Thus they will aim to be available for the ODI Series against South Africa as they build towards the Indian Test Series,” he said.

For Australia, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood last featured in the Test series against South Africa.

The visitors had a horrific time as Australia suffered a humiliating loss in the wake of the ball-tampering incident which surfaced at Cape Town.

Mitchell Starc will be available:

However, Mitchell Starc is on track and looks fine to play a part in the Test series. Meanwhile, Starc didn’t play the last Test against South Africa due to an injury.

However, he has regained his fitness and will look to the lead the attack once again against Pakistan.

“On a positive note, Mitchell Starc is back to unrestricted training and remains on track for the Test Series against Pakistan,” Beakly concluded.

Australia will play two Tests, five ODIs, and one T20I. However, the venue is yet to be finalised.