In a major boost for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to rejoin the franchise for the remainder of IPL 2025. While travel arrangements are still being finalised, RCB remains in close communication with the fast bowler.
Hazlewood’s return comes as a positive surprise after he was initially ruled out for the season with a shoulder niggle. His recovery and potential comeback underline RCB’s determined push for their first-ever IPL title as the tournament gears up for its much-anticipated restart.
Before the mid-season break, Hazlewood had been instrumental in RCB’s campaign, claiming 18 wickets in 10 innings. His tally places him third in the race for the Purple Cap, cementing his role as the team’s premier strike bowler.
The 33-year-old’s presence is expected to significantly strengthen a bowling unit that struggled for consistency in the final few games before the tournament was temporarily halted. The IPL was suspended amid escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, but the BCCI has since cleared six venues to host the remaining 13 league fixtures.
The league will resume on May 17 with RCB facing off against Kolkata Knight Riders at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. With Hazlewood back in the mix, RCB fans will hope the team can regain momentum and climb into playoff contention.
Hazlewood’s workload will be closely monitored, as he is also part of Australia’s squad for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final. Australia will take on South Africa at Lord’s from June 11, seeking to defend their title and become the first team to win the WTC twice.
In the lead-up to the IPL’s restart, several Australian players, coaching staff, and broadcasters had returned home amid uncertainty. Hazlewood’s willingness to return reflects the faith he has in RCB’s campaign and his fitness.
As the tournament prepares to resume, RCB’s aspirations hinge on the contributions of key players like Hazlewood. With the fast bowler set to return to action, the franchise will look to reignite its title bid and end years of waiting for IPL glory.
