Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood made a sensational comeback after 13 months, claiming 6 wickets in the first innings against Bangladesh in Darwin to reach the milestone of 300 Test wickets.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Hazlewood returned to Test cricket after a 13-month injury layoff.
- Claimed 6 wickets for 89 runs in the first innings against Bangladesh.
- Became the 9th Australian bowler to reach the 300 Test wickets milestone.
- Created a world record alongside Starc, Cummins, and Lyon.
Australian star pacer Josh Hazlewood has made a thunderous return to the Test arena. After being sidelined for 13 months due to a persistent heel injury, Hazlewood dismantled the Bangladeshi batting lineup in Darwin, claiming a magnificent 6-wicket haul. His figures of 6/89 helped him cross the landmark of 300 Test wickets, making him only the ninth Australian to achieve this feat.
The milestone was reached when Hazlewood dismissed Bangladeshi all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, caught by Alex Carey. This performance marked his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket and his fourth time taking six wickets in an innings—the last being against India in Bengaluru back in 2017. His absence during the previous Ashes series was felt deeply, as the team relied heavily on Scott Boland in his stead.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Hazlewood's return provides Australia with much-needed tactical precision. His ability to maintain a relentless line and length allows the captain to rotate other bowlers more effectively, creating pressure from both ends.
Hazlewood's ability to exploit even the flattest tracks with subtle movement makes him a nightmare for top-order batters.
Beyond individual glory, Hazlewood's achievement has triggered a historic bowling milestone. With his 300th wicket, Australia now boasts a unique quartet in their playing XI. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood are all part of the elite '300 Club'. This is the first time in Test history that a single team's attack features four bowlers with over 300 wickets each.
Bowling Legends Comparison
| Bowler | Test Wickets |
|---|---|
| Nathan Lyon | 568 |
| Mitchell Starc | 435 |
| Pat Cummins | 316 |
| Josh Hazlewood | 300+ |
Despite Hazlewood's brilliant spell, Bangladesh managed to post a formidable first-innings total of 426, establishing a lead of 228 runs. Australia now faces a steep uphill battle to force a result in the match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Who was Hazlewood's 300th victim?
Answer: He claimed his 300th Test wicket by dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Question 2: How long was Hazlewood away from Test cricket?
Answer: He was out of the Test squad for 13 months due to a heel injury.
