Veteran Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has acknowledged that England’s batting unit poses a significant challenge for the hosts ahead of the highly anticipated Ashes series later this year. Calling them an “unbelievable” line-up, Hazlewood highlighted that Australia will need to be at their very best to contain England’s aggressive and talented top order.

England’s batting revolves around the combination of Harry Brook, the world’s No. 2 ranked Test batter, and former captain Joe Root, who sits just one spot behind him. Brook, only 25, is set for his maiden Test tour of Australia. Despite his limited first-class experience in Australian conditions — just a single match for the England Lions in 2021 — Hazlewood believes Brook’s attacking style and recent success prove he will be a dangerous opponent.

Root, meanwhile, brings vast experience but has yet to record a Test century in Australia, averaging 35.68 from 14 matches. Yet Hazlewood warned against underestimating him, noting that Root is “probably in the form of his life.”

Reflecting on England’s recent 2-2 Test series draw against India, Hazlewood said the English side showed a willingness to temper their trademark aggressive “Bazball” style when required, though their collapse at The Oval — losing 7 wickets for 66 runs — underlined vulnerabilities that Australia will look to exploit.

The pacer also stressed the importance of staying match-ready ahead of the Ashes. Rather than taking an extended break, Hazlewood is keeping himself active in domestic cricket to maintain bowling rhythm and fitness. “Time on the field, multiple spells in a day, is hard to replicate at training,” he explained.

With England’s top seven in excellent form, Hazlewood concluded that the series promises to be one of the toughest yet, demanding peak performance from Australia’s bowling attack.