Josh Hazlewood Misses Day 2 of South Africa Test Due to Illness
Josh Hazlewood missed Day 2 of Australia's second Test against South Africa due to illness, with a return expected on Day 3.
Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood missed Day 2 of the second Test against South Africa at St George’s Park in Gqeberha on Monday, October 19, due to illness. He is expected to recover and return to bowling on Day 3, according to media reports.
Play resumed late on Monday after heavy rain caused long delays. Hazlewood did not take the field during the opening sessions, leaving Australia without one of their key fast bowlers for a part of the match.
Hazlewood bowled only five overs on Day 1, giving away three runs before rain cut short the day’s play. Just 12.2 overs were possible on the opening day.
Scott Boland Leads Australia’s Attack
With Hazlewood unavailable, fellow fast bowler Scott Boland led Australia’s attack and dismissed overnight batter Marques Ackerman early on Day 2. Boland had already made an impact on Day 1 by removing Aiden Markram and David Bedingham, reducing South Africa to 25-3 inside 15 overs.
Australia also have captain Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc in their pace attack. Hazlewood’s return would give the visitors another experienced option as they look to put South Africa under further pressure.
Hazlewood’s absence comes after an outstanding performance in the first Test in Durban. He took six wickets for 49 runs on the final day to help Australia secure a 214-run victory.
His fitness will be important for Australia as the second Test progresses. However, his expected return on Day 3 is based on media reports, and Cricket Australia has not issued a formal medical update confirming when he will be available again.
