Australia’s Ashes preparations faced a sudden blow when Sean Abbott was ruled out with a hamstring injury during the Sheffield Shield clash between New South Wales and Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Abbott left the field midway through play on Day 3, complaining of soreness in his left hamstring. Scans later confirmed a moderate-grade injury, forcing him out of contention for the opening Test. A Cricket Australia statement reads, "Sean Abbott also left the field having reported left hamstring soreness. Scans confirmed a moderate grade hamstring injury. He will not be available for selection for the first Test match in Perth and his return to play plan will be developed over the coming weeks." Read also: Oxygen dropped to 50! Reports reveal chilling details of Shreyas Iyer before rushing to hospital Hazlewood cleared, Cummins still doubtful In contrast, Josh Hazlewood’s scan results brought relief. He too had left the field during Victoria’s innings, citing tightness in his right hamstring. However, medical tests cleared him of any muscle strain, allowing him to proceed with training ahead of the Perth Test. On Wednesday, November 12, Cricket Australia clarified, "Josh Hazlewood will join the Australian squad as planned in Perth Ashes Test. Hazlewood left the field late in Victoria's innings at the SCG today, reporting tightness in his right hamstring. He underwent precautionary scans which have cleared him of muscle strain. He will train as planned in the lead up to the first Test in Perth." CA management is minutely looking after Hazlewood's progress and will continue doing so for the upcoming few days. Meanwhile, Australia remains cautious, especially with captain Pat Cummins already ruled out of the series opener. Fast-bowling options have thinned, with Lance Morris, Jhye Richardson, and Spencer Johnson also nursing injuries. With Abbott sidelined, selectors may consider Brendan Doggett, who has claimed 13 wickets at 14.69 this Shield season. Meanwhile, Cummins continues rehabilitation at the SCG, aiming for a Gabba return on December 4.