Josh Hazlewood is looking forward to the Ashes against England and feels the matches will test him as a bowler. He is prepared to take on the formidable batting line-up of the visitors, with Harry Brook and Joe Root being the top two batters in the world.

Hazlewood lauded England’s top order, calling it the most dangerous he has faced in the Ashes. He is impressed with how Harry Brook has performed in the longest format and is backing him to show his class in Australia. He also praised Joe Root, the second-highest run-getter in the format’s history.

“England have been playing on flat tracks, and the dry summer also impacted the pitches. I think Brook will adapt to the conditions in Australia as he is a good player who is at the top of the ranking. He will be a tough challenge,” Hazlewood said.

The right-arm pacer believes that Brook’s batting style could suit Australian conditions. The young batter has accumulated 2,820 runs at an average of 57.55, including 10 hundreds in 30 Tests.

“A fresh face like Harry Brook will find it easier. He is carrying no baggage and is likely to play with freedom. Joe Root is in the form of his life. Their line-up has unbelievable batters, and the top seven have done well. It is going to be a challenge,” he added.

Root has played 14 Tests in Australia, but the veteran has failed to score a century. Hazlewood feels this is good for Root’s breakthrough series. Hazlewood also talked about his preparations.

“It is good for me if I keep on playing instead of having long breaks. It is tough to get back to full intensity and volume. The best for me is to bowl more,” he concluded.

The Ashes series will start on November 21 at Optus Stadium in Perth.