Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are likely to turn their attention to New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy in the upcoming IPL 2026 auction as a potential backup for Josh Hazlewood, who faces a demanding international schedule ahead. Despite having Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara as another new-ball option, the defending champions are keen to ensure depth in their fast-bowling department, especially given Hazlewood’s uncertain availability.

Hazlewood has been one of RCB’s most reliable all-phase pacers, particularly in the powerplay. In IPL 2025, he finished as the joint-highest wicket-taker, averaging just 16 with an economy of 7.27 in the early overs. But with Australia’s packed calendar and the pacer’s history of workload management, RCB may need a reliable replacement to maintain their bowling balance.

Jacob Duffy’s recent exploits for New Zealand have made him an appealing prospect. In the fifth T20I against West Indies, the right-arm seamer produced a stunning spell, claiming 4 for 35 in four overs — including three wickets in one over — to dismantle the Caribbean top order. His victims included Shai Hope, Ackeem Auguste, and Sherfane Rutherford, highlighting his knack for early breakthroughs.

Duffy finished the series as the leading wicket-taker with 10 wickets at an average of 12.10 and an economy rate of 6.72, earning him the Player of the Series award. Across all T20Is this year, he has topped the wicket charts among full-member nations with 35 scalps at 15.08 apiece in 20 innings, including three four-wicket hauls.

RCB’s interest in Duffy stems from his ability to replicate key aspects of Hazlewood’s style. Tall and brisk, Duffy extracts bounce and movement, troubling batters with fuller deliveries that swing at pace. His capacity to deliver three effective overs in the powerplay and bowl disciplined yorkers at the death adds flexibility to any attack.

While the IPL’s flat pitches may test his adaptability, Duffy’s recent form and improvements make him a valuable addition. His hard lengths and variations have been effective under lights — conditions often favoring fast bowlers who attack the stumps.

With the 2026 auction unlikely to offer many high-quality seamers, RCB’s management could view Duffy as a smart and cost-effective acquisition. As Hazlewood’s availability remains in question, securing Duffy early would give the champions the assurance of a dependable pace option capable of delivering impact spells when it matters most.