Australia Faces Tough Selection Between Boland, Hazlewood Ahead of WTC Final at Lord’s

Australia faces a selection dilemma ahead of the World Test Championship final against South Africa, particularly in the fast bowling department where Scott Boland and Josh Hazlewood vie for a spot. Boland, pain-free after 18 months of knee issues, has been impressing selectors with his recent fitness and performance, aiming to make selection difficult. Despite Hazlewood's recent IPL success and return to fitness, uncertainty remains due to his shoulder issues and Boland's strong wicket-taking record, including a standout performance in the Border-Gavaskar series. Australia has named four specialist pacers—Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Hazlewood, and Boland—with the final XI decision hinging on the third pacer slot. Boland's goal is to be ready to bowl at his best and challenge for selection, while Hazlewood's late arrival in London and injury concerns add complexity. This selection headache is part of broader team considerations including batting order decisions for the crucial final at Lord's.