Is Hazlewood Confident Ahead of the WTC Final in England?
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Synopsis
As Australia gears up for the World Test Championship final against South Africa, Josh Hazlewood shares his unwavering confidence in bowling during Tests in England. With a strong track record and recent IPL experience, he aims to elevate his pace ahead of the clash at Lord's. Will this confidence lead to victory?
Key Takeaways
- Hazlewood's impressive record in England
- Preparation strategy before WTC final
- Recent IPL experience boosts confidence
- Competition for the third seamer position
- Team morale and readiness ahead of the match
New Delhi, June 7 (NationPress) As Australia prepares to take on South Africa in the World Test Championship final, fast-bowler Josh Hazlewood expressed his consistent confidence while bowling in England's Test matches. He mentioned plans to elevate his pace ahead of the highly anticipated encounter at Lord's on June 11.
In his 12 Test appearances in England, Hazlewood has claimed 52 wickets at an impressive average of 26.07. Notably, he secured five wickets in his last match at Lord's during the 2023 Ashes series against England.
"Every time I bowl in England, I'm feeling quite confident. My tours here over the last decade have been successful, especially at Lord's. I've never lost at Lord's in red-ball cricket, and we've enjoyed several victories there through the years," Hazlewood remarked.
"Today is essentially a recovery day after the flight to get back into the groove. I aim to focus on a few more overs tomorrow and ensure I'm ready over the next few days," he shared with ICC on Saturday.
Hazlewood has not played a red-ball match since the third Test against India at The Gabba in December 2024 due to a calf injury. Consequently, fast bowler Scott Boland stepped in and achieved a remarkable 10-wicket haul against India in Sydney. This creates a competitive situation for the third seamer's position at Lord's.
What favors Hazlewood is his recent experience in London, having played several overs while winning IPL 2025 with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, despite a minor shoulder issue.
"I bowled some solid overs just before the IPL Final in Ahmedabad under different conditions, which was quite challenging. Playing in the IPL usually means I can bowl seven or eight overs in a game if I push myself," he explained.
"With warm-ups and the four overs during the matches, plus bowling second often in the IPL, I managed to fit in additional practice. Things are shaping up well at this point," he noted.
"Everyone is looking fit. We have all been training or playing in various locations over the past few months, so it's great to reunite and sync up as we progress," he concluded.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Josh Hazlewood's statements ahead of the World Test Championship final. His confidence and experience in English conditions are pivotal as Australia prepares to face South Africa. Such insights not only highlight individual player journeys but also the broader narrative of cricket on the global stage.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Josh Hazlewood's bowling record in England?
Josh Hazlewood has taken 52 wickets in 12 Tests in England, maintaining an average of 26.07.
When is the World Test Championship final?
The World Test Championship final will commence on June 11 at Lord's.
Who is competing against Australia in the WTC final?
Australia will face South Africa in the World Test Championship final.
What recent experience does Hazlewood have before the WTC final?
Hazlewood recently played in the IPL 2025 for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
What challenges has Hazlewood faced recently?
Hazlewood has been recovering from a calf strain that kept him out of red-ball cricket since December 2024.
