Australia preparations for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final are facing serious concerns due to multiple injuries to key players. Having successfully qualified for their second consecutive WTC Final and advancing to the upcoming Men’s Champions Trophy as reigning ODI champions, Australia’s drive for more silverware has been hindered by significant injury setbacks.
The recent 3-1 series win over India, in what was a thrilling five-match Test series, came at a considerable cost, with both Josh Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins suffering injuries. Hazlewood was forced to leave the series midway after sustaining a calf injury, while Cummins, who had been instrumental in Australia’s success, underwent scans following the Sydney Test due to a sore ankle. Cummins’ injury has cast doubt on his participation in the Champions Trophy set to begin in February.
Cricket Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, provided an update on Thursday, acknowledging that Cummins’ recovery remains uncertain. “We’ll have to wait and see when that scan comes back and see how it’s tracking,” Bailey said, adding, “There’s a little bit of work to do. We’ll probably get a bit more information around where that’s at.”
Cummins had an outstanding series against India, taking 25 wickets across five Tests and contributing significantly with the bat. His leadership and performance were crucial to Australia’s victory. Despite the concerns over his injury, Bailey remains hopeful that the captain will return to full fitness before the Champions Trophy.
As for Hazlewood, Bailey expressed optimism about his recovery from the calf injury, noting that the bowler is making steady progress. However, the selectors are proceeding cautiously with Hazlewood, given the considerable time he has missed. “Josh is working really hard, and all the news about how he’s responding to his recovery is coming along really well,” Bailey said. Hazlewood played a pivotal role in both Australia’s World Test Championship and ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup victories in 2023, and his recovery is vital for the team’s prospects.
In a positive development for Australia, all-rounder Cameron Green is on track for recovery ahead of the WTC Final. Green had missed the summer Test series against India due to a back injury, but Bailey is hopeful he will be available as a batsman for the WTC Final against South Africa. “Very hopeful he will be available as a batsman for the World Test Championship final,” Bailey confirmed.
The ICC World Test Championship Final is scheduled to take place at Lord’s Cricket Ground starting on June 11, and despite the injury concerns, Australia will be hoping to field a fully fit squad to challenge for the prestigious title.
