Australia's Ashes campaign faces a significant setback as star bowler Josh Hazlewood is set to miss the crucial third Test. Hazlewood, who has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury, has now experienced Achilles soreness, delaying his return to bowling. This injury comes as a blow, especially with the short turnaround until the third Test. The Aussie Test captain, Pat Cummins, is also out with a back problem, further weakening Australia's bowling lineup. Cricket Australia's statement confirms the Achilles issue, but reassures that it's a minor setback, with Hazlewood expected to resume running and bowling next week. Former Aussie fast bowler Damien Fleming predicts Hazlewood's return might not come until the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This injury puts Australia in a difficult position, especially with the absence of Cummins and Hazlewood, forcing Mitchell Starc to take on more responsibility. Starc has been exceptional, claiming three wickets in the opening over of each of England's innings, and has 16 wickets overall, the most by any player at this stage of an Ashes series since Mitchell Johnson in 2014. However, the pressure is on Starc to maintain his form, as Australia's bowling depth is now significantly reduced.
