Josh Hazlewood is poor man's James Anderson: Robert Key

We still have got some time left for live action in Brisbane, the venue for the first Ashes Test match. Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, who along with Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins form the fast bowling pack for the hosts, has been termed as ‘poor man’s’ James Anderson by former England cricketer Robert Key. Hazlewood has picked 118 wickets from 31 Tests and he has been one of the most impressive fast bowlers for Australia in recent times.

With his height, the fast bowler gets a lot of bounce and he has the ability to move the ball both ways. England are the defending champions, as both the sides are at level with 32 wins each. Hazlewood averages 25 with the ball down-under but Key believes that Anderson is far better placed.

Key roots for Broad and Anderson

Key believes that Stuart Broad and James Anderson can’t be ruled out from his XI, as they are the best England have produced. “You just can’t leave of these two out, they would arguably get into England’s best ever XI, let alone a combined England-Australia XI for this year. ‘In a way, Josh Hazlewood is a poor man’s Anderson so I don’t see the point in picking a poor man’s Anderson when you’ve got the Jimmy Anderson.” Key said.

Key also opted for Aussie pacer Mitchell Starc instead of Chris Woakes, he said that Starc has been selected to add pace to the squad. ‘Starc gives you that extra bit of pace and he just gets in ahead of Woakes because he is quicker.

The former cricketer also picked Jake Ball, who is likely to recover just in time for the 1st Test. I’m fully fit now,’ he said. ‘Last few days in Townsville I was off my full run, and I’ve had a few sessions in the field. ‘I’m in a really good position at the minute, feel like I’ve had enough bowling, so I hope come the first day I’ll be ready to go.’Ball said.