Islamaad, May 25, 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have received a crucial boost as Australia’s fast bowler Josh Hazlewood rejoins the squad just two days before their final Indian Premier League (IPL) league match.
This timely return comes ahead of the highly anticipated IPL playoffs, strengthening RCB’s bowling attack as they gear up to face the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Josh Hazlewood had temporarily left the IPL bubble during the week-long suspension caused by heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Alongside this break, he was also managing a shoulder issue that required careful rehabilitation.
Now fully recovered, the right-arm pacer is ready to make a significant impact in RCB’s campaign.
“It feels fantastic to be back after a couple of weeks at home. I spent some quality time bowling in Brisbane and am feeling good physically,” Hazlewood shared in a video posted by RCB on Sunday. “I’m eager to get back on the field, start practicing, and help the team in the upcoming matches.”
At 34, Hazlewood has been an instrumental figure for RCB this season. With 18 wickets in 10 matches, he stands as the team’s leading wicket-taker and ranks fourth overall in the IPL wicket charts. His consistency with the ball has been key to RCB’s strong performance this season.
The Australian pacer was in Brisbane, preparing for Australia’s World Test Championship final against South Africa and under close observation by Cricket Australia’s medical team. RCB management has also been monitoring his recovery closely, hopeful that his return would boost their playoff prospects.
RCB, having already secured a playoff spot, now face the Lucknow Super Giants in their final league encounter. Although the team slipped to a 42-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in their last outing, Hazlewood’s return could be the turning point they need.
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However, the team’s path to a top-two finish depends on other results, including the Punjab Kings’ match against Mumbai Indians. A narrow PBKS win could keep RCB in contention, but a loss to LSG would push the Rajat Patidar-led side into the Eliminator round.
With the stakes high and the playoffs looming, Josh Hazlewood’s comeback adds a fresh wave of optimism for Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans eager to see their side go all the way this IPL season.
