SA vs AUS 2nd ODI: Why is Josh Hazlewood not playing South Africa vs Australia second ODI match?

In the highly anticipated SA vs AUS 2nd ODI match between South Africa and Australia, fans might have noticed a significant absence in the Australian bowling lineup. The reliable fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood, is not taking part in this crucial match.

Why is Josh Hazlewood not playing SA vs AUS 2nd ODI match?

The primary reason for Josh Hazlewood’s absence from the second ODI is a strategic move by the Australian team management. Hazlewood has been rested on a rotation basis. This rotation policy is often employed by teams to manage the workload of key players, especially fast bowlers, and ensure their fitness and performance in the long run.

To maintain the bowling strength in Hazlewood’s absence, the Australian team has made a strategic substitution. Nathan Ellis, another talented fast bowler, has been chosen as Hazlewood’s replacement for the second ODI. Ellis brings his own set of skills and strengths to the team, and his inclusion provides him with an opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

Australia captain Mitchell Marsh at Toss: Bit warmer tonight, probably would have bowled first. Looks very similar, it plays better under lights with dew around. Execution is the key here. We have to assess the conditions and see where it takes us. We have two debutants, TIm David and Aaron Hardie come into the side and Ellis comes in place of Hazlewood.

Australia Playing XI

David Warner, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey(w), Tim David, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa

Bench: Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Agar, Josh Hazlewood, Spencer Johnson, Tanveer Sangha

South Africa Playing XI

Quinton de Kock(w), Temba Bavuma(c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi

Bench: Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Dewald Brevis, Wayne Parnell, Reeza Hendricks, Sisanda Magala, Bjorn Fortuin, Tristan Stubbs