Josh Hazlewood Rejoins RCB for IPL 2025 Playoffs
Hazlewood's Return Boosts RCB's Bowling Lineup
Josh Hazlewood has officially rejoined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season, providing a significant enhancement to the team's bowling strength. His return was uncertain earlier this month due to the temporary suspension of the tournament amid rising air raid tensions between India and Pakistan.
Now fully recovered from a shoulder injury, Hazlewood has rejoined the RCB squad just in time for their critical final league match against the Lucknow Super Giants, led by Rishabh Pant, which is set for Tuesday, May 27, at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
The 34-year-old fast bowler utilized the IPL mid-season break for rehabilitation in Brisbane. Reports indicate that Hazlewood has completed his recovery and is prepared to resume training. His comeback is crucial for RCB, who are still vying for a top-two playoff position.
In a video shared on RCB's official social media platforms, Hazlewood expressed his excitement, stating, 'Good to be back! Hope to get the ball rolling again and start practice tomorrow.'
Hazlewood has been a standout performer for RCB this season, leading the team's wicket tally with 18 wickets across 10 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 8.44 and achieving a four-wicket haul.
He was absent from RCB's last match against the Chennai Super Kings on May 3 due to his shoulder injury. During this time, RCB's Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, confirmed that Hazlewood was undergoing a closely monitored rehabilitation program in Australia.
Following the conclusion of his IPL commitments, Hazlewood will shift his focus to national duties, as he is anticipated to be part of Australia's squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa, commencing on June 11 at Lord’s.
RCB, on the other hand, is looking to recover from a 42-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. To keep their playoff hopes alive, Rajat Patidar's team must secure a victory in their final league match against Lucknow.