SYDNEY – With the 2025-26 Ashes series fast approaching, Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has publicly declared his confidence in playing all five Tests, despite a history of injuries that has sidelined him in previous seasons. His statement comes as a boost for Australia, particularly with Test captain Pat Cummins in doubt for the series opener due to a back injury.
Speaking to Australian media following a strong performance against India in a recent one-day international, the 34-year-old pacer acknowledged that "everyone is carrying some sort of niggle" and that it is "the life of a fast bowler". However, he insisted that he feels in excellent physical condition.
"My body feels great right now, I am very confident of getting through all five [Tests] without any dramas," Hazlewood said.
A timely return to form
Hazlewood's comments follow an impressive start to the home summer. He played a significant role in Australia's seven-wicket ODI victory against India in Perth, dismissing both Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer. His performance on the lively Perth pitch prompted him to request a similar surface for the Ashes opener, slated for November 21 at Optus Stadium.
His strong showing contrasts with recent injury setbacks that have limited his Test appearances. Hazlewood missed multiple Tests in previous home summers, including the 2021-22 Ashes. After sustaining a calf strain in December 2024 and a side strain in May 2025, his fitness was a point of concern.
Impact of Cummins' injury
The timing of Hazlewood's announcement is critical, as it provides reassurance for a team facing uncertainty over its bowling attack's depth. Captain Pat Cummins is recovering from a lower back injury and has conceded it is "less likely than likely" he will be fit for the Perth Test. This places additional pressure on Hazlewood and fellow pacer Mitchell Starc to remain fit for the entire series.
Hazlewood's resilience has been evident throughout his career. After being named joint vice-captain in 2018, he endured a back injury that ruled him out of the tour of the UAE and saw him replaced in the leadership role. Despite that setback, he continued to improve his bowling, with his form in recent years showing a significant uptick in his wickets and strike rate.
The Ashes schedule, which begins in just over a month, will test the stamina of Australia's fast bowlers across five Tests in seven weeks. Hazlewood's determination to play the full series will be a crucial factor in Australia's defence of the urn.
