Josh Hazlewood declared fit for WTC final

Josh Hazlewood, who returned home midway from Indian Premier League 2023 complaining of side soreness, has been cleared of any damage and declared fit for selection for the World Test Championship finale against India and the ensuing Ashes.

Royal Challengers Bangalore team director Mike Hesson had officially ruled him out of the franchise’s final league game, a must-win home clash against defending champions and table toppers Gujarat Titans. RCB secured the services of the seamer at INR 7.75 Crore.

Since the scans did not reveal damage of any sort, after a precautionary period of rest, Hazlewood has since returned to bowling ahead of the Australian team’s scheduled departure to the United Kingdom.

Australia have announced a 17-player squad for the UK which will be trimmed to 15 names for the World Test Championship final – starting June 7 – by the team’s scheduled departure on May 28. The finale will be followed by a five-match Ashes series.