In a timely boost for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of the playoffs, Veteran fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has rejoined the squad. He is expected to be available for RCB’s upcoming fixture against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Tuesday, May 27.
Should he take the field, it will mark Hazlewood’s first appearance since April 27. He had missed the match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at home. Following the temporary suspension of the IPL due to tensions between India and Pakistan, Hazlewood had flown back to Australia. His return was initially uncertain, especially with the World Test Championship final at Lord’s approaching—an event where he’s expected to feature for Australia. However, as previously reported by RevSportz, Hazlewood had informed the RCB management of his intention to return over the weekend.
Hazlewood bolsters RCB’s squad
RCB officially confirmed Hazlewood’s arrival via a social media update.
While RCB have already secured a playoff berth, their recent defeat in a high-scoring contest against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) dealt a blow to their top-two aspirations. Hazlewood’s return comes at a critical juncture, with playoffs games yet to be played.
So far, Hazlewood has been RCB’s standout bowler across all phases of the game this season. The tall Australian pacer currently ranks fourth on the list of leading wicket-takers in IPL 2025, with 18 scalps at an average of 17.27 and an economy of 8.44.
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