Josh Hazlewood Under Fire: Mitchell Johnson Criticizes IPL Over WTC Priorities

 

Josh Hazlewood has stirred some strong reactions in the cricketing circles over his decision to sacrifice preparations for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in favour of joining the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the season. The chief testimony of such controversies is Josh Hazlewood Under Fire, after former teammate Mitchell Johnson directly questioned Hazlewood’s commitment to national duty.

Hazlewood, 34, played an important role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title victory this season. He claimed 22 wickets in this tournament while also making headlines for a critical wicket taken in the title clash against the Punjab Kings. But where people have raised eyebrows is about his coming back for the IPL when the tournament resumed after the short pause because of geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. While some Australian players opted out of returning, Hazlewood chose to rejoin the franchise.

That phrase Josh Hazlewood Under Fire isn’t just media hype- it reflects a growing sentiment among former players and critics who felt national representation should remain the top priority. Mitchell Johnson in writing in The West Australian, raises a question on the long-term impact of the kind of choices on the future of Australia’s Test.

The Controversial Call

Johnson worried over Hazlewood’s fitness and how selections in favour of league cricket could inhibit Australia’s red-ball ambitions. “Of late, there have been worries about Hazlewood’s fitness; his inappropriate recall for IPL instead of concentrating on his national duties raised eyebrows,” Johnson said. 

His comments were not just about Hazlewood. The veteran also took exception to Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. Johnson had his reservations about clinging to the same bowling quartet for nostalgia’s sake, especially so close to the Ashes, which could delay the evolution of the team.

Time for Regeneration?

Players on the periphery, such as Sam Konstas, Josh Inglis, and Scott Boland, need passageways for opportunity, according to Johnson. Furthermore, he argued that the players were hungry for upskilling performances and meritocratic national reassignment.

He stressed that the forthcoming Test series against the West Indies would provide the most opportune window for experimentation because injuries like the finger problem of Steve Smith could turn out to be blessings in disguise. Johnson stated, “It is very important to really think of when to take the big decisions.”

That Josh Hazlewood Under Fire is not an isolated episode; it opens up a bigger discussion and is proof of the growing clamour around balancing franchise cricket with the international schedule.

Cricket Match Predictions Shift with Player Priorities

Player availability is what even dictates a fair number of live cricket match predictions, with one example being Hazlewood’s participation in the IPL. The impact a top player missing preparatory matches or even an entire series has on the composition of the team-from which form, synergy, and strategy draw.

In the short run, Hazle’s decision may have brought some benefits to his IPL franchise, but it was the pondering of many questions as far as Australia’s Test squad is concerned.

Is It Justified?

Hazlewood defenders argue that under such pressure in high-stakes T20 matches, players can do much good in Tests too. Thus, Hazlewood might still maintain a bowling rhythm and fitness in IPL, which could be an advantage. Johnson, however, thinks a very different mindset is required for Tests than for T20 leagues.

Again, Johnson’s comment about a decades-old team is true. The core of Australia’s team includes some past-their-peak players like Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, and Marnus Labuschagne. For example, players such as Hazlewood do national duties but occupy important slots; many talented cricketers on the bench may not enjoy such opportunities throughout their careers.

Future Stars Waiting

Some of the Johnson favorites include Sam Konstas, whom he thinks may be a good bet in Caribbean conditions. Pairing up the young talent with an experienced opener in Khawaja could give a nice blend of selectors’ approach in the regeneration without massively upheaving the top order.

Josh Inglis and Scott Boland were also marked out as having the right attitude. At 36, Boland is supposedly still hungry and disciplined for the Test format, according to Johnson. ”They’re eager to prove themselves every time they get a chance,” he added.

Hazlewood’s Legacy at Stake?

The Josh Hazlewood Under Fire controversy may prove to be a watershed moment for his career trajectory. While no one denies his contribution to Australian cricket, such moments create public and internal perception. His decision may not influence his immediate selection, but it opens the door for scrutiny from the selectors and criticisms from the fans alike.

Fans and analysts, under such decisions, will frame and re-evaluate their predictions for cricket matches on Starexch, affecting everything from the expectation to viewing trends.

Australia’s selectors now face a dilemma—remain loyal to the tried-and-tested stars or look to a new generation wanting to etch their name into history. In any case, Hazlewood’s actions have guaranteed his consideration will not go away

FAQs

Why is Josh Hazlewood controversial at the moment? 

Hazlewood has been criticised for leaving the Australian Test team without any preparation for the WTC final and heading towards the much famous IPL instead.

Who is bashing Josh Hazlewood and why? 

Mitchell Johnson, the former fast bowler of Australia, has slammed Hazlewood along with other senior bowlers for opting for franchise cricket over national duty.

What exactly was the role of Hazlewood in IPL 2025? 

Hazlewood took 22 wickets for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and was instrumental in securing their first-ever win of an IPL title.

Which aspects of cricket match predictions are crucial? 

Hazlewood’s decision has an effect on cricket match predictions as the strength and strategy of teams vary based on the availability of key players.

Who are the emerging youngsters being supported by Mitchell Johnson? 

Mitchell Johnson backed Sam Konstas, Josh Inglis, and Scott Boland as possible replacement/test stars for the Australian Test Side.