2 hours ago
The green light was given to Hazlewood to link up with the Aussie lineup for the first Ashes Test following fitness concerns, but fellow pace bowler Abbott has been ruled out
Each encountered muscle problems while representing NSW in the Victoria clash during Sheffield Shield action this past Wednesday
Scans showed Hazlewood, 34 escaped muscle damage. The 33-year-old Abbott, yet to debut, sustained a moderate-level injury
Skipper Pat Cummins will miss the opening Test, commencing later this month, meaning the absence of a key pace option in Hazlewood could have proven a major blow
Abbott would have been not expected to participate at the Perth match, with Hazlewood set to join Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland as the specialist seamers
The captain, rehabilitating from spinal concerns, is thought to be on track to return during the next Test commencing December fourth
Batsman Steve Smith will captain the side during the captain's recovery
Similar to most the Australia players, Hazlewood participated in recent matches of state games ahead of the historic rivalry
Prior to recently, he was absent from red-ball cricket with his state team since last season
He noticed discomfort in his hamstring towards the end of the match during the match and left the field as a precaution
Both players came out to bat during the follow-on innings in a losing cause by 300 runs
"We're a week away before the international cricket - always err on the side of caution," commented Cummins
"They wanted to find out the nature of the problem before pushing it that could worsen the condition"
"Uncommon to see him upbeat, therefore it was positive observing his positive demeanor"
"He understands his physique thoroughly. It seemed he felt slightly anxious (and) wanted to get medical assessment"
The bowler collected 57 appearances with the national team in ODI and T20 cricket
Without Test experience Doggett represents additional pace options among the selections, providing cover for Starc, Boland and Hazlewood
