Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the first Test against South Africa

Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the series-opening test against South Africa starting on Saturday as he continues to recover from a side strain, but captain Pat Cummins is likely to return from a quadricep injury.

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Both the quicks missed the second test against West Indies, which Australia won by 419 runs at Adelaide Oval on Sunday to sweep the two-match series 2-0. Selectors omitted Hazlewood from a 14-man squad named on Monday for the Gabba Test against the Proteas while adding uncapped Western Australia seamer Lance Morris as injury cover.

"Pat continues to improve, bowled with freedom on Saturday, and appears likely to play this match although Josh will need more time."

"Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott. We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past. Lance is a very exciting prospect who will benefit from time with the squad. With so much cricket ahead, we continue to seek opportunities to grow and maintain our fast-bowling experience and depth."

National selector George Bailey said

In the absence of Hazlewood and Cummins, Michael Neser and Scott Boland took eight wickets between them in Adelaide, where Steve Smith captained the side.

"Michael bowled superbly in Adelaide, as did Scott," said Bailey. "We were impressed as always with their performances that backed up what they have achieved in the past."

Australia squad

David Warner
Usman Khawaja
Marnus Labuschagne
Steven Smith
Travis Head
Cameron Green
Alex Carey
Pat Cummins
Mitchell Starc
Nathan Lyon
Scott Boland
Michael Neser
Marcus Harris
Lance Morris