Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) director of cricket Mo Bobat has confirmed that Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood will link up with the team for the upcoming IPL season once Cricket Australia approves his recovery. The franchise is in close contact with CA and medical staff as Hazlewood progresses through his return-to-play program in Australia.
Hazlewood, instrumental in RCB’s IPL 2025 victory, has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in the Sheffield Shield last November. He also sat out the recent T20 World Cup 2026 due to incomplete recuperation. The 35-year-old, under Cricket Australia’s care, is expected to miss the initial IPL 2026 fixtures, with his return timeline pending confirmation.
Bobat addressed the media, acknowledging Hazlewood’s recent injury setbacks and ongoing rehabilitation in Australia. He emphasized the strong collaboration between the player, Cricket Australia, and RCB’s medical teams. The director expressed optimism about Hazlewood’s swift integration once he receives the green light from Cricket Australia.
Despite Hazlewood’s probable absence at the start of the season and Yash Dayal’s season-long absence for personal reasons, Bobat remains confident in RCB’s bowling depth. He highlighted the presence of talented domestic fast bowlers like Rasik, Abhinandan, and Mangesh, acquired in the latest auction, as capable replacements.
RCB commences their title defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.
