Aussies to play it safe, look to Jhye

AUSTRALIA is set to unleash Jhye Richardson in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide to replace experienced seamer Josh Hazlewood, who was on a flight to Sydney on Sunday after suffering a side strain in Australia’s first Test win.

Though several other players such as Travis Head, Alex Carey and David Warner also returned home after Australia’s landslide win over England on Saturday, it appears Hazlewood is set to be rested for Thursday’s Test and recalled for the third Test in Melbourne.

A scan showed Hazlewood only had a very minor strain, and was able to bowl on day four of the Gabba Test, however the Australians will be taking no chances with their prized quick.

Hazlewood – like the other Australian fast bowlers – has come straight from the Twenty20 World Cup and had no red-ball preparation heading into the first Test.

His absence in Adelaide should allow the pacy, skilful Richardson (pictured) to earn a Test recall in a tight call over Michael Neser.

Richardson played two Tests for Australia nearly three years ago and looked the part and has been in outstanding form in the Sheffield Shield for Western Australia.

Warner is likely to play despite rib soreness, but if he is ruled out Australia is looking at compact Queenslander Bryce Street and Usman Khawaja.

Street, 23, scored a century for Australia A against the English Lions on the weekend and is an old-fashioned lefthanded opener in the Justin Langer mould, with endless patience and comfortable in challenging conditions.

The pink-ball Test is a tricky one for selectors because while the night time environment can make it a swing bowler’s paradise, there are also times in the day when batsmen are on top.