Australia name 15-man-squad for WTC Final; Josh Hazlewood included as one among four pacers

Josh Hazlewood's inclusion in Australia’s final 15-man squad was one of the biggest talking points as the Pat Cummins-led team gears up to face off against India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final from June 7. 

Hazlewood made a short appearance for RCB in IPL 2023 before he had to fly back home to treat a minor injury, but Cricket Australia have deemed the pacer fit to feature in the WTC Final. 

The WTC final, which is slated to be played from June 7th to 11th at the Oval, is expected to offer a surface where Hazlewood could thrive in conditions which will suit the pacers. The tall speedster is one among four quicks Australia have picked in their squad, with skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland also making the cut. 

Mitchell Marsh and Matthew Renshaw, two players who were originally in the 17-man squad announced by Australia for the Ashes, have now been pushed into the reserves. Todd Murphy, who made an impressive debut during Australia’s tour of India will partner Nathan Lyon on the spin front, while Josh Inglis has also been named in the 15-man team as a backup to regular wicket-keeper Carey.

Australia’s 15-man squad for WTC final: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner