Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has responded to sharp criticism from former teammate Mitchell Johnson, who accused him of prioritising the Indian Premier League (IPL) over preparations for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. Hazlewood, who played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title, defended his decision, citing weather conditions in Australia and the intensity of IPL competition as ideal preparation.
🗣️ Hazlewood: “IPL Was the Best Option”
In an interview with The Age, Hazlewood explained that rain in Sydney and Brisbane left him with “literally nowhere to bowl,” making the IPL the most practical choice.
“Just getting over there and playing intense competition like that—it’s hard to replicate in training,” he said. “We were still in the competition, going to play semis, and I was going to be there for 10 days. I think it was comfortably the best option.”
🔥 Johnson’s Scathing Remarks
Mitchell Johnson, writing in The West Australian, questioned Hazlewood’s commitment and fitness, stating:
“His decision to prioritise returning to the delayed IPL over national team preparations raised eyebrows.”
Johnson also urged selectors to rethink the reliance on Australia’s “big four” bowling attack—Hazlewood, Starc, Cummins, and Lyon—and consider giving chances to younger, hungrier players.
🏏 WTC Final Fallout
Australia’s five-wicket loss to South Africa in the WTC Final intensified scrutiny, especially as Hazlewood managed just two wickets in the match. The timing of his IPL return—just days before the final—has become a flashpoint in the debate over balancing franchise cricket and national duty.
Stay tuned for more updates on Australia’s cricketing crossroads.
