Australia's fast bowler Josh Hazlewood interacted with fans by signing autographs. — AFP

Australian pace bowler Josh Hazlewood delivered two high-intensity spells at Adelaide Oval on Monday, indicating that he will assess his availability for the third Test against India in Brisbane within the next 24 hours. Hazlewood was absent from the 10-wicket victory against India in Adelaide on Sunday due to a recurring side strain that has plagued his career.

"I believe it will depend on how I recover within the next 24 hours," Hazlewood shared with reporters. "It's the repetitive nature of the action, and two spells make a significant difference. Cooling down completely and then resuming the same day, with the intensity being extremely high as well." He added, "There are a few factors to consider, but it's likely the 24 hours post-bowling that will be crucial, followed by how I feel the next day. If all is well, I should be ready to go if needed."

Scott Boland, who made his Test return after 17 months, replaced Hazlewood in the pace attack for the second Test, contributing match figures of 5-105 as Australia secured a swift victory within three days, leveling the series at 1-1. Hazlewood mentioned that while he might have played through the pain in Adelaide, he always adopts a cautious approach with side strains due to his history with them.

"I think I would have been in a pretty bad state by the end of the game—even though it was short, it just wasn't quite right," the 33-year-old said. "Fortunately, we have Scotty, who performs exceptionally well whenever he plays. Sometimes, you need to be almost 100% to take the field."

Hazlewood also addressed the controversy surrounding his comments during a press conference following the heavy defeat in the first Test, which some media interpreted as revealing a rift between the bowlers and batters in the dressing room. "Walking out of that press conference, I didn't think much of it; it was just a regular one for me. I was quite surprised by how things unfolded," he said. "But I think the long gap of 10 days between games provided something for people to discuss."

The third Test at the Gabba is scheduled to commence on Saturday.

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