Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood aims to build on his strong Test comeback against Bangladesh before the crucial South Africa series.
Australia’s experienced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is determined to preserve the intensity he regained during his successful return to Test cricket as Australia prepare for their three-match away series against South Africa in October.
Hazlewood returned to Australia’s Test setup during the recently completed two-match home series against Bangladesh following a year-long absence from the longest format. His comeback provided a major boost to the Australian bowling attack as he quickly rediscovered his rhythm and effectiveness.
The 35-year-old delivered an impressive performance in the opening Test at Darwin, claiming seven wickets, including a six-wicket haul in Bangladesh’s first innings. Despite Hazlewood’s efforts, Bangladesh secured a convincing nine-wicket victory in the series opener.
The fast bowler had a quieter outing in the second Test in Mackay, managing only one wicket. However, Australia responded strongly in the must-win encounter to defeat Bangladesh and level the two-match series.
With his Test comeback successfully completed, Hazlewood could now continue his return to international cricket across multiple formats. Australia are scheduled to face South Africa in a three-Test series and also have a three-match series against Zimbabwe, giving the veteran pacer opportunities to maintain his match sharpness.
Hazlewood said playing regularly, within reasonable limits, would be the ideal approach for him ahead of the South Africa Tests. Australia also have two ODI series before the Test campaign, and the pacer indicated that he could feature in selected matches to retain his competitive intensity.
The right-arm quick also expressed satisfaction with his physical condition after completing an extensive preparation period before the Bangladesh series. He revealed that he had undergone approximately 10 weeks of intensive training, describing it as his final major preparation block before the upcoming assignments.
Hazlewood’s return will be closely watched as Australia prepare to face the reigning World Test Championship holders. Maintaining his fitness and bowling intensity could prove crucial to Australia’s ambitions in the challenging South African conditions.