Josh Hazlewood, Australia’s fast bowler, has been ruled out of the World Test Championship final against India, which begins on Wednesday at The Oval.

Hazlewood, 32, is dealing with an Achilles problem as well as a side injury, which has kept him out of the Indian Premier League for much of the season.

He is still in contention for the first Ashes Test against England, which begins on June 16 at Edgbaston.

Michael Neser has been called up to the team for the five-day match in London.

Neser has taken 19 wickets for Glamorgan County Cricket Club this summer.

However, Hazlewood’s unavailability puts Scott Boland in line to replace him alongside skipper Pat Cummins and left-armer Mitchell Starc in Australia’s lineup.

Hazlewood has started bowling in training this week, but Australia has chosen to be cautious considering the upcoming five Ashes Tests in six weeks.

“Josh was very, very close to being given the green light, but our upcoming schedule means this is not a one-off Test match for us,” Australia’s chair of selectors George Bailey said.

“Michael’s county form has been strong, and knowing he’d be close by allowed him to keep playing while also allowing us to call on him.” He is an excellent addition to the fast bowling group.

“This will provide Josh with an excellent preparation for Edgbaston.” We will need all of our fast bowling assets with six Test matches in less than seven weeks.”