Josh Hazlewood Out for Entire Ashes 2025, Major Blow for Australia

In a significant blow to Australia’s bowling lineup, pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out for the entirety of the Ashes 2025 series against England, as confirmed by head coach Andrew McDonald on Tuesday. This news follows Hazlewood's absence from the opening matches in Perth and Brisbane, creating a considerable gap in the team's attack.

McDonald expressed his disappointment regarding Hazlewood’s condition. “It’s really tough for him. A couple of unexpected setbacks occurred. We had anticipated he’d play an essential role in the series. It’s a real shame he won’t get that chance,” he remarked.

Hazlewood faced a hamstring strain prior to the Perth Test, but his recovery was further complicated by a recent injury to his lower calf and Achilles. As a result, Australia has confirmed that their leading quick will not partake in any games of the five-Test series, where they currently lead 2-0 and can secure the urn with just a draw in Adelaide.

Coincidentally, Hazlewood’s absence was announced on the same day that England revealed fast bowler Mark Wood would also be sidelined for the rest of the series due to a knee injury, underscoring the injury crisis affecting both sides.

McDonald affirmed the anticipated return of Pat Cummins, the regular captain and leading fast bowler, for the Adelaide Test. Cummins has been recovering from a lower back injury, missing the initial matches. He has successfully undergone match simulation sessions at Allan Border Field in Brisbane. “He has trained as if he were in a match, executing various spells. We believe he is both skill-ready and physically prepared to play,” McDonald noted. Assuming no further issues arise, Cummins is set to lead the squad in Adelaide, participating in the coin toss while wearing the captain’s blazer.

In other team updates, selectors surprised many by excluding veteran spinner Nathan Lyon from the first home Test in Brisbane since 2012, eliciting an emotional reaction from the 38-year-old. McDonald, a member of the selection panel, acknowledged Lyon’s disappointment but emphasized that he will continue to play a vital role in the series ahead.

With the Ashes urn on the line, Australia is poised to solidify their lead despite key player absences, while England wrestles with challenges to their bowling squad. The Adelaide Test is set to be crucial as both teams gear up for the next chapter of this historic rivalry.