'Ridiculous Record': Hazlewood Backs Boland for South Africa Tests
After a dominant win in Durban, Josh Hazlewood suggests Scott Boland's ridiculous record makes him a key asset for the remaining South Africa Tests.
Australia has stormed into their three-Test series against South Africa with a massive 214-run victory in Durban, further cementing their position at the top of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 standings. While the victory was a collective effort, the Australian pace battery proved to be the deciding factor, leaving the hosts struggling to keep pace.
Hazlewood Dominates in Durban
The opening match saw senior pacer Josh Hazlewood deliver a masterclass in fast bowling. Hazlewood spearheaded the attack with clinical precision, claiming figures of 6/49 to dismantle the South African batting lineup. His efforts helped bowl the hosts out for 206 in their final innings, ensuring a commanding win for the visitors.
Interestingly, the Durban surface offered enough turn to justify the inclusion of specialist spinner Nathan Lyon. This strategic move meant that the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Hazlewood shared the workload, leaving the highly effective Scott Boland on the sidelines.
The 'Class Act': Scott Boland's Potential Return
Despite being benched for the first Test, Scott Boland remains a looming threat for South Africa. Boasting a staggering bowling average of 18.58 in Test cricket, Boland's quality is undisputed within the Australian camp. Josh Hazlewood was quick to highlight Boland's consistency and skill during practice sessions.
"He [Scott Boland] barely bowls poorly," Hazlewood remarked. "Every net the boys come in, it's like, geez, Scotty again."
With the series now shifting to Gqeberha and Cape Town—venues traditionally known for favoring pace and bounce—Australia may look to integrate Boland into the playing XI to maximize their fast-bowling potency.
Long-term Vision and Workload Management
Hazlewood believes Boland is not just a temporary option but a vital part of Australia's long-term strategy over the next 12 to 18 months. The Australian schedule is grueling, featuring a four-Test series against New Zealand at home, a five-match tour of India early next year, and a high-stakes five-Test Ashes series in 2027.
Having a "class act" like Boland available allows the senior bowlers some breathing room. Hazlewood noted that knowing Boland is ready to step in makes team conversations easier and creates a more resilient unit, allowing players to rotate or recover without compromising the team's strength.
The Art of Reverse Swing in South Africa
Beyond personnel, Hazlewood shared insights into the technical battle on South African soil, specifically the role of reverse swing. He contrasted the conditions in South Africa with the green seamers often found in Australia, where the ball stays newer for longer and reverse swing is less common.
In Durban, the abrasive and hard nature of the wicket allowed the ball to deteriorate in a way that favored reverse swing. Hazlewood explained that the key is not having too much reverse swing with a soft ball, which is easier for batsmen to handle, but rather a "hint" of reverse swing while the ball is still hard enough to maintain carry.
As Australia heads to Gqeberha, they will look to maintain this momentum and secure more crucial ICC World Test Championship points to keep their lead at the top of the table.