Josh Hazlewood Return to Training as Cummins Gears Up for Pink-Ball Test

Australia Receive Major Boost in Bowling Department

Australia were handed encouraging signs ahead of the second Ashes Test as Josh Hazlewood returned to the training nets on Tuesday. The fast bowler, who missed the opening Test in Perth due to a hamstring injury, bowled at Cricket Central in Sydney with New South Wales going about their Sheffield Shield fixture against Tasmania. His presence in the nets comes as a positive indication of his rehabilitation progressing well. So let’s have a look at Josh Hazlewood return training.

Cummins Targets Pink-Ball Return

Alongside Hazlewood, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins was also seen in action, bowling with the pink ball as he continues his recovery from a back injury. With the next Test scheduled to be a day-night clash at the Gabba, Cummins’ pink-ball practice suggests he is preparing to push for selection. He had also bowled impressively in the nets before the opening Test, signaling that he is edging closer to full fitness.

Hazlewood Likely to Return in Adelaide

In what appeared a sign of the team’s immediate planning, Hazlewood bowled with the red ball instead of the pink one. He is not expected to feature in Brisbane, with his comeback target likely set for the Adelaide Test, which returns to a traditional daytime format this year. Head coach Andrew McDonald expressed confidence that the experienced pacer will play a role later in the series, adding that while there is still rehabilitation work to be completed, the expectation is that Hazlewood will return at some stage during the Ashes.

Cummins Nearing Full Rehabilitation

Cummins’ workload progression also pleased the team management. McDonald noted that the captain’s intensity and pace in the nets resembled a player nearing the end of his rehabilitation phase. However, the coaching staff remains cautious, ensuring that his bowling workload builds steadily without risking further injury. With the first three Tests spread out by comfortable gaps—extended further due to Perth’s two-day finish—the selectors have flexibility before the schedule tightens for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests.

Pink Ball May Set Up Another Fast-Paced Test

With the pink-ball factor at the Gabba, another fast-moving contest is on the cards. Recent Sheffield Shield action saw ten wickets fall in one night session between Queensland and Victoria, indicating challenging conditions under lights. One of the standout performers was Xavier Bartlett, who took 4 for 35 and hit a career-best 72, boosting his standing as a pace option if reinforcements are needed.

Strong Bowling Depth Behind Frontline Options

Michael Neser remains in reserve after being the spare quick in Perth, while Jhye Richardson is also pushing for inclusion as he continues comeback efforts following shoulder surgery. Richardson bowled 20 overs for a Cricket Australia XI against England Lions and is expected to feature again for Australia A in Brisbane as he builds up to longer-format readiness.

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