“Hazlewood arrived yesterday. He is looking fit,” said Andy Flower, the head coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), as the team gears up for the opening match of IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
After a lengthy rehabilitation process due to hamstring and Achilles injuries, Josh Hazlewood’s return to the squad is a significant boost for RCB. The fast bowler, who last played international cricket in October 2025, missed both The Ashes 2025-26 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, leaving fans eager for his comeback.
Hazlewood’s impressive performance in IPL 2025, where he took 22 wickets in just 12 matches with an average of 17.55 and an economy rate of 8.77, has set high expectations for his return. His ability to change the game with his bowling will be crucial for RCB as they defend their maiden title.
“It is great to have him here in our dressing room and in the meetings,” Flower added, emphasizing the positive impact Hazlewood’s presence has on the team morale.
RCB’s captain for this season, Rajat Patidar, expressed confidence in the team’s capabilities, stating, “We are not defending anything, we will win in IPL 2026 as well.” This statement reflects the team’s determination to build on their previous success.
In the opening match, RCB won the toss and opted to bowl first, showcasing their strategy to leverage their bowling strengths early on. Jacob Duffy, a recent addition to the squad, made an immediate impact by taking three wickets in his first three overs against SRH, further highlighting RCB’s depth in bowling.
Ishan Kishan, another key player, remarked, “We want to back our instincts,” indicating the team’s aggressive approach as they aim to replicate their success from the previous season.
As the IPL 2026 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Hazlewood and his performance, as fans hope to see him back in form and contributing to RCB’s quest for another championship. The excitement in Bengaluru is palpable, with supporters eagerly anticipating the return of their star bowler.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding Hazlewood’s full fitness level, but the initial signs are promising as he integrates back into the team environment.
