Shastri Backs Hazlewood Over Boland for WTC Final at Lord’s

Hazlewood’s Style Suits Lord’s Slope Like McGrath, Says Shastri

As the World Test Championship Final draws closer, former Indian coach Ravi Shastri has thrown his support behind Josh Hazlewood to feature in Australia’s playing XI over Scott Boland. Shastri believes Hazlewood’s skillset, much like Australian legend Glenn McGrath, makes him a perfect fit for English conditions, especially at Lord’s.

Australia’s Pace Dilemma for WTC Final

With Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc virtually assured of their spots, Australia’s third seamer for the WTC Final against South Africa (June 11-15) remains undecided. Shastri, speaking on The ICC Review, said that if Hazlewood is fit, he should be chosen ahead of Boland.

“It will be a very tough choice, but if Hazlewood is fit, then he gets the nod ahead of Boland,” Shastri asserted.

Hazlewood’s Return to Form a Boost

Injury concerns had kept Hazlewood out of several crucial tours, including parts of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and Australia’s Sri Lanka tour. However, the 34-year-old has recently made a strong comeback in the IPL, delivering a match-winning four-wicket haul for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Rajasthan Royals.

Comparison to Glenn McGrath at Lord’s

Shastri highlighted that Hazlewood’s bowling action and height closely resemble McGrath’s, who was lethal at Lord’s.

“Check Glenn McGrath’s record at Lord’s—26 wickets in three Tests. Hazlewood can do something similar with his height and skill,” Shastri explained.
He emphasized the role of Lord’s famous slope and the slower English pitches, which could amplify Hazlewood’s strengths over Boland’s.

Boland Still Highly Regarded

Despite favoring Hazlewood, Shastri acknowledged Scott Boland’s excellence, especially noting his performance in the previous WTC Final (2021-2023 cycle) where he picked five wickets to help Australia clinch the title.

“I’m a big fan of Scott Boland too,” Shastri said. “Ideally, you’d love to play all four seamers if the pitch shows enough grass.”

Australia’s Selection Dilemma Continues

Australia also has options like all-rounder Beau Webster, but the debate between Hazlewood and Boland will be crucial for their chances in the final. With Hazlewood fit and finding rhythm, Shastri’s advice may carry significant weight in Australia’s team meeting ahead of the summit clash.

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