Josh Hazlewood Breaks Silence on 300-Test Wicket Milestone… Australia’s Pace Star Says ‘It’s a Long Way Away’

Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood is on the verge of joining one of the most exclusive clubs in his country’s cricket history, but the veteran fast bowler insists personal milestones are the last thing on his mind.

With Australia set to begin a busy Test season against Bangladesh in Darwin, Hazlewood needs just five more wickets to complete 300 Test wickets. However, the experienced pacer says his primary focus remains on staying fit and contributing to the team’s success.

Hazlewood Eyes Return After Injury Layoff

The upcoming Test against Bangladesh will mark Hazlewood’s return to the longest format after a 13-month absence.

The right-arm quick missed Australia’s home Ashes campaign due to a hamstring injury, followed by a calf problem, forcing him to spend several months in rehabilitation.

Now fully fit, Hazlewood is expected to spearhead Australia’s pace attack as they begin a demanding schedule of 21 Test matches over the next year.

300 Wickets Within Reach

If Hazlewood reaches the landmark in Darwin, he will become only the seventh Australian fast bowler to claim 300 Test wickets.

He would join an elite list featuring some of the greatest pace bowlers in Australian cricket history, including Dennis Lillee, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins.

The achievement would further cement Hazlewood’s place among Australia’s modern bowling greats.

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“I Don’t Look Too Far Ahead”

Despite being close to the milestone, Hazlewood said he prefers not to think about individual records.

Speaking ahead of the Bangladesh series, the fast bowler explained that looking too far into the future can often become a distraction.”I think every time you look ahead in sport it can bite you pretty quickly.”

Hazlewood said his current focus is on gradually building his workload, completing each phase of preparation and ensuring he is physically ready before the opening Test.

He added that once those preparations are complete, his attention will naturally shift to the match in Darwin.

Team Success Comes First

Beyond the Bangladesh series, Australia face an intense period of international cricket, including several important overseas assignments.

Hazlewood admitted that performing well in challenging away conditions remains his biggest motivation rather than chasing personal records.

With Australia aiming to continue their strong performances in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, the experienced pacer is expected to play a crucial role alongside fellow fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.

As Hazlewood prepares for his long-awaited Test comeback, the 300-wicket milestone is firmly within reach—but for the veteran seamer, helping Australia win matches remains the ultimate objective.