Australia paceman Josh Hazlewood will miss the Boxing Day Test after injuring his hamstring in Perth, coach Justin Langer confirmed. Scans revealed Hazlewood suffered a low-grade tear during his opening spell on the second day of the first Test against New Zealand.
The 28-year-old lasted just eight deliveries, taking the wicket of Jeet Raval, before being forced from the field. Langer ruled him out of the MCG clash and suggested Peter Siddle could rival James Pattinson and uncapped seamer Michael Neser for Hazlewood's spot.
"Without doubt, Patto and Michael Neser, they'll be in the squad 100 per cent and we'll look whether we replace Josh with another fast bowler," Langer told reporters.
"The obvious one would be Peter Siddle, actually. He did a really good job in the Ashes, he's bowling very well for Victoria and it's at the MCG, where he's played a lot of cricket. We'll see what happens the rest of this game and then make a decision."
Australia will expect to take a 1-0 series advantage to Melbourne after building a 417-run lead by stumps on day three at Optus Stadium. The host is set to resume at 167-6 in its second innings after skittling the Black Caps for 166 on Saturday.
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