2 hours ago
Hazlewood received clearance to link up with the Australian team for the first Ashes Test post-injury worries, although compatriot Abbott will miss the match
Both suffered hamstring injuries playing for NSW against Victoria during Sheffield Shield action on Wednesday
Medical examinations revealed Hazlewood (34) did not sustain tissue injury. The uncapped Abbott, 33, has a "moderate grade" injury
Skipper Pat Cummins is unavailable for the initial match, commencing later this month, so the loss of a key pace option in Hazlewood would have been a significant setback
The bowler stood doubtful to feature during the Western Australia Test, as Hazlewood prepares to team up Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland forming the fast bowling unit
Cummins, who is recovering from back issues, is thought to be likely to comeback for the second Test commencing December fourth
Top-order player Smith will captain the side while Cummins is out
Similar to most Australian cricketers, the bowler took part in recent matches of Sheffield Shield matches ahead of the Ashes
Until this match, he was absent from a first-class match with his state team since last season
He noticed discomfort in his hamstring towards the end of Victoria's second innings on Wednesday and was substituted for safety reasons
The two bowlers came out to bat during the follow-on innings during their defeat by three hundred runs
"We're a week away until the Test matches - always err on being cautious," commented Cummins
"The medical staff sought to identify what was happening ahead of risking and potentially making the condition"
"He seldom shows him upbeat, so it was good observing his positive demeanor"
"He's aware of his condition thoroughly. It seemed he felt a little bit worried (and) wanted to get medical assessment"
Abbott has won 57 appearances for Australia in white-ball cricket
Without Test experience Brendan Doggett provides bowling backup within the team, providing cover for Starc, Boland and Hazlewood