Thu Nov 21 13:57:38 UTC 2024: ## Hazelwood Relieved to Avoid Pujara in Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Perth, Australia – Australia’s pace bowler Josh Hazelwood has expressed relief at not facing veteran Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting Friday in Perth. Pujara, along with Ajinkya Rahane, played crucial roles in India’s victories in the previous two series.
Hazelwood, speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, stated his happiness at Pujara’s absence, highlighting the batsman’s consistent strong performances on Australian soil. He recalled Pujara’s impressive 2018-19 series, where he scored 521 runs in seven innings, including three centuries, and his significant contribution to India’s win in 2020-21, playing the most balls of any batsman in the series.
While acknowledging India’s deep batting talent pool and the pressure on younger players to perform, Hazelwood also commented on the challenge of facing aggressive batsmen like Rishabh Pant, emphasizing the need for adaptability and backup plans. He noted the absence of Shubman Gill due to a thumb injury will disrupt India’s top six, but expressed confidence in the depth of the Indian team.
The Australian bowler also pointed out the absence of experienced Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami due to injury as a potential blow to India, though he highlighted Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership and experience as a potential offsetting factor in the first Test. The series promises a thrilling contest between two cricketing giants.
First Piper 