Hazlewood withdrawn from Test party

Young seamer Josh Hazlewood is set to miss Australia's Test series against India

Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of Australia’s Test squad for the forthcoming tour of India due to a back injury.

Cricket Australia medical staff today confirmed the New South Wales paceman “has developed the early stages of a low back bone stress injury” and will not be risked.

“During the past week, Josh Hazlewood developed low back pain while bowling in preparation for the upcoming tour of India Test series,” said Australia physio Alex Kountouris.

“His symptoms were consistent with a low back bone stress injury and scans have confirmed the early stages of a low back stress fracture.

“As such, he has been withdrawn from the Test series, as he will require a period of rest from bowling to allow the bone stress to resolve.”

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch added: “The injury to Josh is obviously very disappointing as he is one of the young fast bowlers we have identified as having an important role of to play in Australia’s future.”

Australia’s selectors announced Mitchell Starc and James Pattinson will act as standby players to ensure adequate cover for the tour game being played before the first Test against India, which gets under way in Mohali on October 1.