Age
34
Player Skill
Bowler
Batting Style
Left Handed
Bowling Style
Right-arm fast medium
Test Ranking: 4
Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood, standing at an impressive 6’4”, is renowned for his precision in line and length. He made headlines as the youngest fast bowler ever to be selected for New South Wales at just 17, debuting against New Zealand in November 2008.
Breaking into the International Scene
Hazlewood quickly ascended to the international arena, making his One Day International (ODI) debut against England at the age of 19. He became only the third Australian teenager to play ODIs, marking the start of a promising career.
Test Debut and Memorable Performances
Impactful Test Debut Against India
In December 2014, Hazlewood made an impactful Test debut against India, leading Australia’s bowling attack with remarkable precision. He claimed 7 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings, guiding his team to a 4-wicket victory.
Ashes Heroics and World Cup Success
Hazlewood’s performance in the 2015 Ashes was notable, taking 16 wickets in the first four games. In the 2017-18 Ashes, he excelled again with 21 wickets, contributing to Australia’s 4-0 series win. He was also part of the victorious Australian squad in the 2015 Cricket World Cup.
Challenges and Comebacks
Battling Injuries and Leadership Role
Persistent back injuries led to Hazlewood’s removal as Test vice-captain, causing him to miss key tours and series, including the 2018-19 series against India and the subsequent World Cup. However, he made a spectacular comeback during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia, delivering an unforgettable spell of 5-3-8-5 that dismantled the Indian team.
Versatility Across Formats
Success in T20 Leagues
While Hazlewood is often seen as a Test cricket specialist, he has also excelled in T20 formats. He was signed by Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2020 and continued until 2021. In the IPL 2022 mega auction, he was acquired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 7.75 crores, showcasing his versatility and value in the shortest format of the game.
FAQs About Josh Hazlewood
What makes Josh Hazlewood a standout bowler?
Josh Hazlewood is known for his exceptional ability to maintain a precise line and length, making him a formidable bowler across all formats. His consistency and control have led to numerous impactful performances, including memorable spells in both Test and ODI cricket.
How did Josh Hazlewood perform in his Test debut?
In his Test debut against India in December 2014, Hazlewood made a significant impact by taking 7 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings, helping his team secure a victory.
What are Josh Hazlewood’s accomplishments in the Ashes series?
Hazlewood has delivered noteworthy performances in the Ashes, particularly in 2015 with 16 wickets and in 2017-18 with 21 wickets, playing a key role in Australia’s series victories.
How has Josh Hazlewood adapted to Twenty20 cricket?
Despite being known for his Test cricket capabilities, Hazlewood has successfully adapted to T20 cricket. He has played for teams like Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL.
What challenges has Josh Hazlewood faced in his career?
Persistent back injuries have been a significant challenge for Hazlewood, affecting his participation in several key tours and tournaments. However, his resilience and skill have allowed him to make successful comebacks.
