Hazlewood, Abbott pick up injuries in lead-up to Ashes

Australia have been dealt fresh injury concerns in the lead-up to the Ashes, with fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott failing to take the field after lunch on Day 3 of the Sheffield Shield clash between New South Wales and Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Both pacers picked up injuries and are currently being assessed by Cricket Australia's medical staff. Cricbuzz understands that Hazlewood's hamstring issue is minor, but Australia are expected to take a precautionary approach with him, particularly with regular captain and pace spearhead Pat Cummins already ruled out of next week's Ashes opener in Perth.

If Hazlewood's injury turns out to be more serious than first thought, Australia could find themselves worryingly short on fast-bowling options, with Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, and Spencer Johnson all sidelined at the moment. That scenario could open the door for a debut for Brendan Doggett, the 31-year-old who has impressed this season with 13 Sheffield Shield wickets at 14.69 since returning from his own minor hamstring setback.

Meanwhile, Cummins continued his rehabilitation at the SCG on the sidelines of the Shield fixture, working towards full fitness in a bid to be available for the second Ashes Test, starting at the Gabba on December 4.