Josh Hazlewood Set to Rejoin RCB for IPL 2025 Playoffs

RCB Receives Boost with Hazlewood's Return

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are poised for a significant advantage as they approach the IPL 2025 playoffs, with Josh Hazlewood nearing a return after recovering from a shoulder issue.

Reports indicate that the Australian fast bowler has successfully completed his rehabilitation in Brisbane and is anticipated to head back to India shortly, although official announcements from Cricket Australia or RCB are still awaited.

Hazlewood had returned to Australia during the IPL suspension and has been training with the national squad in preparation for the World Test Championship final. Despite missing RCB's last match before the break, he has had a commendable season, securing 18 wickets in 10 games at an impressive average of 17.27.

Currently, RCB holds the 2nd position in the league standings, having played 12 matches with 8 victories, 3 defeats, and one washout against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 17 at Chinnaswamy Stadium. Their upcoming match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 has been relocated to Ekana Cricket Ground in Lucknow due to ongoing weather challenges in Bengaluru. The final league match is set for May 27 against Lucknow Super Giants.

Hazlewood's Comeback and Upcoming Challenges

RCB Optimistic as Hazlewood Aims for WTC and IPL Finals

Hazlewood's return to IPL 2025 signifies his comeback after a season marred by injuries. He missed a majority of Australia's matches due to various injuries, including a side strain and calf problems that kept him out of the latter part of the India Test series, as well as tours to Sri Lanka and the Champions Trophy. With 279 Test wickets in 72 matches, Hazlewood last represented Australia in December during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane.

The IPL serves as his re-entry into competitive cricket ahead of the WTC final against South Africa, where he is expected to be part of the playing XI.

If RCB progresses far into the tournament, Hazlewood will face a quick transition before joining the Australian team in the UK. The IPL final is scheduled for June 3, and players like Hazlewood and Josh Inglis will have less than a week to prepare for the WTC match.

It's worth noting that Hazlewood and Inglis are the only players from Australia's WTC squad participating in the IPL playoffs. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins and Travis Head will conclude their campaigns with Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 25, while Mitchell Starc has chosen not to return for the remainder of the season with Delhi Capitals.