Aussie pacers Cummins, Hazlewood ruled out of Pakistan series
Australia have been handed a major blow ahead of their upcoming Test series against Pakistan, which will be held at the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Premier fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the series due to injuries. Both pacers are undergoing rehabilitation for their back injuries. Here are the latest updates.
Duo recovering from lumbar bone stress injuries
Following the series against South Africa earlier this year, the duo haven't played any form of cricket. Both Hazlewood and Cummins suffered lumbar bone stress injuries and are currently recovering from the same. This is why the Aussie Test team will have to do away with them for the 2-match series against the Asian giants in October.
Fitness of duo crucial ahead of packed home season
The focus for the Australian cricket team is getting their two leading bowlers back to their best in terms of fitness. Australia are in line for a packed home season from November onwards that includes a ODI series against South Africa, a full fledged series against India and then two Tests against Sri Lanka. Therefore, having them absolutely ready is an essential attribute.
Duo eye return to competitive cricket via JLT One-Day Cup
David Beakley, Australia's physiotherapist revealed that the bowlers are progressing well, but haven't yet bowled during training sessions. They will not be ready to take on Pakistan. Beakley also added that the intention is to get them back in the JLT One-Day Cup. Meanwhile, there is positive news for Australia with Mitchell Starc recovering from a bone stress fracture.
Both pacers are vital for series against India
Cummins had finished the 2017-18 Ashes as the leading wicket-taker (23). Hazlewood, on the other hand, picked 21 scalps. The duo were terrific and that's why they are crucial for the series against India at home.
