Sydney, November 12 (Udaipur Kiran): Just days before the start of the Ashes series against England on November 21, Australia have been hit by a major setback as fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott were forced to leave the field during a Sheffield Shield match against Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Both players walked off during the first session on Day 3 and did not return after the lunch break. Match officials have yet to confirm the exact nature or severity of their injuries, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Australia’s bowling attack ahead of the high-profile Test series.

Before leaving the field, Hazlewood had taken the wicket of Sam Harper in Victoria’s second innings, while Abbott produced a brilliant spell, claiming 4 wickets for 18 runs in 9 overs, dismantling Victoria’s middle order.

Hazlewood had recently performed impressively in the limited-overs series against India, and Abbott was included as one of the backup fast bowlers in Australia’s squad for the first Ashes Test.

The situation adds to Australia’s concerns, as captain Pat Cummins is already sidelined with a back injury and is expected to miss the opening Test. If additional bowlers are required, Michael Neser is likely to be the first choice, but beyond him, the depth of Australia’s reserve pace attack will face a stern test.

In the ongoing Sheffield Shield fixture, Victoria, after winning the toss, posted 382 runs in their first innings, with Peter Handscomb scoring 104 and Sam Harper contributing 54. In response, New South Wales were bowled out for just 128, with Steve Smith top-scoring with 57 runs.

Victoria built a 254-run first-innings lead and reached 171/9 in their second innings. By the tea break on Day 3, New South Wales were 42/2 in 15 overs, still needing 384 runs for victory.