February 5, 2025: Former Australian cricketer Ian Healy has backed Scott Boland as the third seamer for Australia, ahead of Josh Hazlewood, due to the latter's injury struggles in recent years, which have led to him being in and out of the Test side.
Healy, speaking on SEN Australia, pointed to Boland's stellar performance when Hazlewood missed three Tests in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to side and calf injuries. Boland's unrelenting line and lengths troubled Indian batters throughout the series, with his standout moment being a four-wicket haul against Virat Kohli. His impressive tally of 21 wickets in just three matches at an average of 13.19, including a 6/45 in the fifth Test, earned him recognition as the third-highest wicket-taker in the series.
Boland made his Test debut in 2021 and has since appeared in 13 Tests, taking 56 wickets at an average of 17.66, with best figures of 6/7. Despite not having as many international appearances as the more established trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Hazlewood, Boland has impressed when given the opportunity.
Healy believes that Boland has earned his spot as Australia's third pacer, particularly in home and English conditions. "I have Scott Boland ahead of Josh Hazlewood after his performance against India, which was filling in for Josh Hazlewood," Healy said.
Healy highlighted Hazlewood's recent injury woes, noting that the fast bowler has only played 16 out of the last 34 Tests, which makes him an unreliable option. However, Healy still values Hazlewood in other formats, especially in conditions outside Australia and England. "Josh is a better bowler in all conditions," Healy added.
Healy speculated that the selection debate between Boland and Hazlewood may arise again during the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's in June.
Last Updated on February 5, 2025 by Disha Rojhe
