Aaron Finch suggests selective approach to Josh Hazlewood's Test appearances
What's the story
Australian cricketer Aaron Finch has suggested a selective approach to Josh Hazlewood's Test appearances after his recurring injuries.
Hazlewood has been ruled out of the ongoing India series after his second injury in three matches. After a mild side strain in Perth and a calf strain in Brisbane, concerns are growing over his fitness.
"With Hazlewood he's getting injured more and more regularly so that would be a real concern," Finch told ESPN's Around The Wicket.
Strategy shift
Finch proposes selective approach for Hazlewood's future games
Finch hinted at a tactical change in handling Hazlewood's games, considering his value to the side.
"Think there's an opportunity to maybe even cherry pick the games that he plays in the future," Finch said.
He stressed on choosing the best conditions for Hazlewood to deliver and rotating others accordingly.
This suggestion comes after Hazlewood's frequent injuries raised doubts over his match availability.
Policy review
Australia's rotation policy under scrutiny
Australia's selection panel has never been a fan of rotation for workload management.
But, this policy might need a re-think to extend the careers of fast bowlers like Hazlewood.
Callum Ferguson echoed the same on ESPN's Around The Wicket, saying a rotation policy might help extend these players' careers and make the most of them.
Despite Hazlewood's absence, Pat Cummins was confident he and Mitchell Starc could manage in Melbourne and Sydney.
Comeback plans
Hazlewood's return to Tests and future prospects
Hazlewood could make a possible return to Tests versus Sri Lanka away at the end of January.
However, this is only if Cummins misses out on any matches due to personal reasons as Australia are unlikely to field more than two fast bowlers in Galle.
Despite his recent injuries, Hazlewood is optimistic about regaining full fitness for Australia's two-Test tour of Sri Lanka in late-January-February.
Information
Hazlewood's Test stats and performance in ongoing series versus India
In 72 Tests, Hazlewood has picked 279 scalps at 24.57 for Australia. In the series opener against India, Hazlewood picked figires worth 4/29 and 1/28. He missed the 2nd Test held in Adelaide. In the 3rd Test, Hazlewood managed 1/22, bowling just six overs.