Josh Hazlewood's IPL Future Uncertain Amid Tournament Suspension
Josh Hazlewood's Status in IPL 2025
New Delhi [India] May 11: There are concerns regarding the return of Josh Hazlewood, the bowler for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), to the Indian Premier League (IPL). A shoulder issue had previously sidelined him during RCB's home game against Chennai Super Kings on May 3, according to reports from a sports news outlet.
His availability for the match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 9 was also in question before the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a one-week suspension of the tournament due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
Hazlewood currently leads RCB in wicket-taking, having secured 18 wickets across ten matches in the ongoing IPL season.
Additionally, he is anticipated to be included in Australia's Test squad, which will hold a conditioning camp in the UK during the first week of June in preparation for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa.
On Friday, the BCCI confirmed the immediate suspension of the IPL 2025 season.
The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala was halted midway through the first innings on Thursday. Fans were informed of the cancellation and instructed to leave the venue, while both teams returned to their accommodations.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated, “The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues will be provided after a thorough evaluation of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders.”
He further explained, “This decision was made by the IPL Governing Council after discussions with key stakeholders, including franchise representatives who expressed concerns about their players, as well as feedback from broadcasters, sponsors, and fans. While the BCCI has full confidence in our armed forces, it was deemed wise to act in the collective interest of all parties involved.”