Is Josh Hazlewood Still Committed to Playing All Formats of Cricket?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Josh Hazlewood is dedicated to playing all formats of cricket.
- Injuries have kept him out of the Ashes series.
- He aims to recover for the T20 World Cup.
- Hazlewood values the unique challenges of each format.
- His resilience showcases the spirit of an athlete.
New Delhi, Dec 13 (NationPress) Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood remains steadfast in his commitment to participate in all formats of cricket, despite being unable to play in the current Ashes series due to injury.
Hazlewood, who encountered a hamstring strain while playing in the Sheffield Shield last month, faced another setback with an Achilles injury last week, preventing him from competing against England this summer.
He expressed his dedication to represent his country in both red and white ball formats, even while sidelined from the series.
"Absolutely," he told Sydney's Daily Telegraph. "My body still feels strong. It's just minor issues that come up. I’m still focused on excelling in all three formats as best as I can.
"You inevitably miss a few games; it’s impossible to do everything unless you're a batter. However, I truly appreciate the varying challenges each format presents.
"It keeps things exciting as I prepare for each different format."
Instead, Hazlewood will concentrate on his recovery to be ready for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup starting on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.
"Being injured during or right before a series often leads to a lot of chasing to catch up," he mentioned.
"I likely could have returned for a couple of tests with the hamstring, but that would leave me vulnerable heading into a match without sufficient preparation.
"Every day you aren't bowling means more time needed to regain your previous form.
"Things are certainly easier when you're fit and have done the necessary training."