Australia in Crisis Mode? Mitchell Johnson Slams Hazlewood’s IPL Snub of Test Duty After WTC Loss

The cricket world woke up on June 15–16, 2025 to Former Australian legend Mitchell Johnson publicly attacking fellow pacer Josh Hazlewood for blaming national duties in favour of playing the IPL—even as Australia prepared for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.

The controversy highlights deep debates around franchise cricket vs. national responsibility, player fitness, team rebuilding, and international commitment.

1. Trigger: Hazlewood Chooses IPL Over WTC Prep

After South Africa defeated Australia by five wickets at Lord’s, questions arose about Hazlewood’s low impact—he took just 2 wickets for 85 runs from 34 overs.

Johnson believes that poor performance stemmed from Hazlewood’s decision to return to India to finish IPL 2025 before focusing on Australia’s Test preparations

• IPL 2025 faced a mid-season halt amid India–Pakistan tensions. Hazlewood was initially not expected for the final leg, given fitness and impending Test obligations. Yet, he flew back for the concluding matches and helped Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) win their first IPL title, taking 22 wickets .
• With WTC preparation time limited, Johnson’s critique is sharp: “We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed IPL over his national team preparations raised eyebrows.”

2. Johnson: Enough Is Enough—Time to Move On

Johnson’s attack wasn’t just an emotional rant—it was organized. In his West Australian column, he argued that selectors need to reflect on players’ priorities and think of future line-ups.

• He emphasised that Australia’s famed “big four” (Hazlewood, Starc, Cummins, Lyon) should not be assumed permanent fixtures.
• He praised fringe players like Sam Konstas, Josh Inglis, and Scott Boland, who “have a different mentality” and deserve chances
• Johnson urged selectors to look ahead—using the upcoming West Indies tour starting June 25 as a platform to rebuild the team with energy and hunger

3. IPL vs International Duty: A Continual Tug of War

Hazlewood’s case represents a broader tension:

• The IPL is more lucrative, with lucrative contracts and heavy media attention.
• On the other hand, Test cricket is still considered the highest form—the pinnacle for many players.
• Hazlewood chose IPL success first—a mindset Johnson calls “the wrong mindset”—and for some, a sign of shifting values

Besides personal choices, player fitness is a key issue. Johnson noted Hazlewood’s fitness has been flagged in the past, and jumping into IPL after a break may have affected his form during the high-stakes Test

4. Team Transition: New Blood vs Veterans

Johnson questioned the merit of extending veteran players beyond their peak:

• He supported integrating newcomers who are “eager to prove themselves.”
• Australia’s Test side is at a crossroads—squad rejuvenation is becoming essential. Relying heavily on aging stalwarts may not be sustainable .
• The upcoming Windies tour is seen as a viable opportunity for new talent to gain exposure and build team depth .

5. Hazlewood’s IPL Exploits: Hero in Franchise Cricket

Despite national criticism, Hazlewood’s IPL year has been stellar:

• He led RCB’s attack, claiming 22 wickets and playing a pivotal role in their maiden title.
• His experience and calm in pressure roles were valued in domestic cricket. The contrast between his IPL form and Test struggles has highlighted the different demands of each format

6. Global Repercussions: What It Means for Players Worldwide

Hazlewood’s case reflects a growing global dilemma:

• Players worldwide are choosing global T20 leagues over international obligations.
• National boards like Australia’s Cricket Board (CA) face challenges in maintaining test integrity as leagues offer more attractive options.
• Johnson’s critique may spark further debate on national vs commercial priorities and whether cricket boards should impose stricter rules .

7. Community Reactions & Media Coverage

• India Today, Deccan Herald, and Moneycontrol foregrounded Johnson’s public critique with focused analysis on Hazlewood’s dual commitments
• Reddit cricket forums buzzed with debates on whether IPL is hurting international cricket, though no direct quotes available .
• Former Australian stars have begun weighing in—some expressing sympathy for Hazlewood’s choices, while others support Johnson’s call for prioritising national duties.

8. The Wider Cricketing Picture

This incident touches on a broader transformation in modern cricket:

• Franchise T20 leagues are now deeply entrenched globally: IPL, PSL, BBL, CPL.
• Cricket boards grapple with a new paradigm: financial incentives versus representing one’s country.
• Injuries, bio-bubbles, burnout, and guilt from missed national commitments are frequently cited—a tension that will only intensify as leagues proliferate.

9. Path Ahead for Hazlewood & Selectors

Depending on the fallout:

• Selectors and CA may need to align future schedules to avoid clashes between international covers and franchise tournaments.
• Hazlewood faces pressure: consistent return might endanger his position if performance continues decline.
• The West Indies tour is key: strong performances can salvage reputation and support Johnson’s call for a shake-up
• From a team standpoint, Australia might use this opportunity to test Boland, Inglis, Konstas, and refresh the bench strength.

This isn’t just about Hazlewood or Johnson—it’s about cricket’s crossroads. As T20 leagues flourish, boards need balance: preserving Test traditions while catering to game evolution.

Australia’s response—on the field and in selection—will be critical. For Hazlewood, strong performances can rewrite the narrative. For Johnson, the message is clear: “Lives important, not pay cheques.”