IND vs AUS: Josh Hazlewood Returns for Third Test Against India at The Gabba

Australia's star pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to return for the third Test against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy . The match will take place at The Gabba , Brisbane, from December 14 to 18. Hazlewood, with 278 wickets in 71 Test matches, made a strong impact in the series opener at Optus Stadium, Perth, claiming five wickets. However, he missed the second Test due to injury concerns.

Hazlewood Returns to Strengthen Australia
After being sidelined, Hazlewood has been declared fit to play, replacing Scott Boland in the playing XI. Boland had stepped up in Hazlewood's absence during the second Test, helping Australia secure a dominant 10-wicket victory within three days to level the five-match series. Australian skipper Pat Cummins expressed confidence in

Hazlewood's readiness:
“Josh comes back in … had no hiccups. He and the medical team are super confident,” said Cummins.

Boland Likely to Feature Later in the Series
While Boland misses out on the Gabba Test, Cummins hinted at his potential return in the coming matches. "It’s tough; he was fantastic in Adelaide... I would be surprised if he doesn’t get another crack at some point," Cummins added, emphasizing Boland’s value to the squad.

Hazlewood’s Stellar Record at The Gabba
Hazlewood boasts an impressive record at The Gabba, having taken 37 wickets in eight Tests at the venue. His most recent performance at the stadium, against the West Indies in January 2024, saw him claim five wickets across both innings.

Australia’s Line-Up for the Third Test
The team will remain largely unchanged except for Hazlewood's inclusion. The playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood.

Australia will aim to leverage Hazlewood's experience as they look to gain the upper hand in this closely contested series.