IND vs AUS: Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who is a crucial part of the Australian bowling attack, seems in good spirits before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He is believed to be relieved by the exclusion of Indian veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara from the squad.
Josh Hazlewood has been struggling in recent times to regain his prior form in red-ball cricket, facing challenges in both consistency and fitness since returning to the format. He was unable to take a wicket for New South Wales against Queensland earlier this month in the Sheffield Shield. The seamer would be playing an important role for the home side in the upcoming tour.
Cheteshwar Pujara, who troubled the Australians during India’s last tour in Australia with his resolute batting, is missing from the squad this time. He scored just 271 runs but played a whopping amount of 928 balls. Pujara was successful in defending the balls by Hazlewood, Cummins, Strac, and Lyon, whereas Rishabh Pant slammed them all around the park from the other end.
“I am pretty happy that Cheteshwar Pujara is not around this time. He’s someone who spends a lot of time out there and tyres out the bowlers. But the depth in Indian cricket is pretty good, and the younger guys have a lot of talent as well.”
Josh Hazelwood claimed in a recent interview
This shows the impact Pujara had on the Australian bowling attack in past tours. His tough and patient batting often wore down the Australian bowlers. Pujara was known for staying at the crease for long periods, making it hard for the bowlers to get him out. His ability to handle pressure and frustrate the bowlers left them physically and mentally drained. With Pujara missing this time, Australia will likely miss the challenge he posed in the previous series.
The Indian team will have to make the most of Pujara’s absence, or they could be dominated by the Australian team. Without him, other players will need to step up and take on the challenge.
If they don’t, Australia’s strong bowling attack could take advantage of any weak spots in the Indian team and control the series. India’s middle order, especially, will need to be strong to avoid being overwhelmed by the pressure from Australia.
