BGT 2024-25: Lee Advocates for Hazlewood's Return to Australia's XI for Brisbane Test
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New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has voiced his support for veteran quick Josh Hazlewood to make a return in the Brisbane Test during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, referring to his impressive track record and significant impact.
In the absence of Hazlewood, who was sidelined due to a side strain, Scott Boland stepped in and showcased an outstanding performance, taking five wickets and effectively dismantling India’s top order. With Hazlewood nearing full fitness, he is expected to rejoin the squad for the third Test.
Brett Lee is of the opinion that if Hazlewood is completely fit, he should reinstate himself in the starting XI for the Brisbane Test. While acknowledging Boland’s remarkable contribution, Lee stressed Hazlewood's consistent performances and experience.
"It’s a challenging decision, but we must consider form and what Josh Hazlewood has accomplished. Personally, I believe Josh Hazlewood should return directly. If he’s fit, he deserves the new ball, or at the very least, a spot back in the team," Lee told Fox Sports.
Boland’s outing in Adelaide was his first Test in a year and a half, with his last performance recorded during the third Ashes Test in 2022. Despite the lengthy break, the pacer excelled, taking vital wickets of Shubman Gill and Indian captain Rohit Sharma in the first innings, and added dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Mohammad Siraj in the second innings.
Boland’s five wickets were pivotal for Australia, allowing them to level the series at 1-1. Hazlewood had previously made a strong impression in the series, securing five wickets in the opening Test at Perth, including four in India’s initial innings.
"It’s unfortunate for Scott Boland because he has capitalized on his chances. I see Boland as reminiscent of MacGill during the Warne era, as MacGill claimed 200 Test wickets while Warne was either injured or unavailable. He was a quality bowler," Lee remarked.
Lee further pointed out that Boland could easily fit into any Test team globally. "Boland has the potential to be a part of any national team. However, due to the presence of Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood, he currently faces tough competition. This is no reflection on Boland, as he has bowled exceptionally well," he added.
As the series stands at 1-1, Australia is eager to take the lead in the five-match series when they compete in the third Test from December 14-18 in Brisbane.
