Josh Hazlewood may yet miss more than just a single Test of the Ashes against England.
The towering Australian quick was this morning officially ruled out of the second Test in Adelaide, paving the way for either Jhye Richardson or Michael Neser - who were both named in Australia's original 15-man Ashes squad for the first two Tests - to replace him.
Richardson was picked on the back of excellent Sheffield Shield form, and only just missed out on a spot in the 11 who thumped England by nine wickets at the Gabba, with Mitchell Starc claiming the spot.
The push for Neser to replace Hazlewood is on though, with his style of bowling likely to suit the conditions, as well as the fact this is a day-night, pink-ball Test.
A statement confirming Hazlewood will miss the Adelaide Test however also seemed to hint that he is anything but a sure thing for Boxing Day, meaning the opportunities for Neser and Hazlewood - and potentially other bowlers - could stretch beyond Adelaide.
“Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the second Ashes Test in Adelaide with a side injury,” the statement read.
“Hazlewood was injured during Australia’s nine-wicket win against England in Brisbane.
“Hazlewood returned to Sydney (on Sunday) afternoon for further assessment and rehabilitation with a decision on his fitness for the Boxing Day Test to be made in due course.
“Australia takes a 14-man squad to Adelaide (on Monday) morning including fast bowlers Michael Neser and Jhye Richardson and leg spinner Mitchell Swepson.
“Selectors will choose a squad for the Melbourne and Sydney Tests following the Adelaide match.”
Hazlewood, a mainstay of Australia's attack, would be a shoe-in for Boxing Day on a likely flat Melbourne wicket.
Australia have previously hinted at resting Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc to ensure they all make it through the summer unscathed, however, the injury to Hazlewood could force the hand of coach Justin Langer and the selectors.
