Australian bowler Sean Abbott is out of the first Ashes Test due to a hamstring injury. Josh Hazlewood, who also underwent scans for hamstring tightness, has been cleared to join the squad in Perth. Captain Pat Cummins is also sidelined with a back issue, however he aims to return by the second Ashes Test.

Steve Smith, leading the team in Cummins’ absence, expressed relief that Hazlewood’s injury was minor. Abbott’s absence creates an opportunity for Brendan Doggett, while Fergus O’Neill, Michael Neser and Xavier Bartlett are other possible replacements to the bowling stocks.

Highlights

Here are the highlights from the article:

* Sean Abbott is out of the first Ashes Test due to a hamstring injury.
* Josh Hazlewood cleared of serious harm after scans, will train as planned.
* Brendan Doggett may debut. Pat Cummins is aiming for the second Test.

Ashes Anxiety: Injury Woes Hit Australian Squad!

Emotions are running high as the highly anticipated Ashes series looms, with injury setbacks shaking the Australian camp. The dream of a dominant home series faces unexpected hurdles, leaving fans biting their nails in anticipation.

Abbott Out, Hazlewood a Close Call

News broke that fast bowler Sean Abbott will miss the first Ashes Test in Perth due to a "moderate grade hamstring injury." This blow to the team’s bowling depth hits hard, especially as Abbott was primed to be a key reserve.

• Abbott’s injury throws a wrench into Australia’s plans.
• The uncapped Abbott was eager to make a mark in the Ashes opener.
• He had displayed prowess and talent in previous matches.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Josh Hazlewood, another vital cog in the Australian pace attack, reported "tightness in his right hamstring." Thankfully, precautionary scans have cleared him of any serious muscle strain.

"Joshy was pretty chipper when he got out, so hopefully he should be fine," – Pat Cummins

Caution is Key: Playing it Safe Before the Ashes Fire

The decision to send both bowlers for scans during the Sheffield Shield clash against Victoria highlights the team’s cautious approach. "We’re a week away from the Test series, always err on the side of caution," Cummins stated, prioritizing long-term health over short-term risk. This approach is vital, with statistics showing that rushed returns from hamstring injuries have a high chance of re-injury within the first two weeks, up to 30% according to studies on elite athletes.

• Hazlewood’s clearance offers a sigh of relief.
• Medical scans bring comfort to Australian fans
• He will continue training as planned.

Opportunity Knocks: A Debut on the Horizon?

Abbott’s misfortune could pave the way for South Australian seamer Brendan Doggett to make his Test debut. Doggett has been in stellar form, snatching 13 Sheffield Shield wickets at an impressive average of 14.69 since returning from a minor hamstring injury himself!

Other potential reinforcements include Fergus O’Neill, Michael Neser, and Xavier Bartlett, each eager to seize their chance.

Potential Replacements:

• Brendan Doggett: In excellent form, a strong contender.
• Fergus O’Neill: A consistent performer, ready to step up.
• Michael Neser: Experienced and reliable, a steady option.
• Xavier Bartlett: A rising star with a bright future.

Cummins’ Comeback: Eyes on the Gabba

Adding to the tension, Captain Pat Cummins is also racing against time to recover from a back issue, ruling him out of the first Test. However, he remains optimistic about returning for the second Test at the Gabba on December 4th.

"That’s what we’re building towards," – Pat Cummins

He acknowledges the tight timeline, stating, "It’s still pretty aggressive, going from nothing to trying to get ready for a Test match in four weeks. But we’re going to give it a good shot.”

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FAQ

Okay, here are 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) based on the provided text about the Australian cricket team and the upcoming Ashes Test:

1. Who has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test in Perth due to injury?

   • Sean Abbott has been ruled out due to a "moderate grade hamstring injury."

2. What injury did Josh Hazlewood report?

   • Josh Hazlewood reported tightness in his right hamstring.

3. Will Josh Hazlewood be playing in the first Ashes Test?

   • Yes, Josh Hazlewood has been cleared of muscle strain and will train as planned for the first Test.

4. Why did Abbott and Hazlewood undergo scans?

   • They underwent scans after reporting issues during a Sheffield Shield match against Victoria. Abbott had a hamstring injury, and Hazlewood had tightness in his hamstring.

5. Who is likely to replace Sean Abbott in the first Ashes Test squad?

   • Brendan Doggett is a potential replacement for Sean Abbott and may make his Test debut.

6. Is Pat Cummins playing in the first Ashes Test?

   • No, Pat Cummins has already been ruled out of the first Test due to a back issue.

7. Who will captain Australia in the first Ashes Test in Cummins’ absence?

   • Steve Smith will captain Australia in the first Ashes Test.
8. When is Pat Cummins aiming to return to the team?
   • Pat Cummins is aiming to be available for the second Ashes Test, which starts on December 4th at the Gabba.