IPL 2025: Josh Hazlewood Rejoins RCB Ahead of Crucial Playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 42 runs in the 18th IPL season in Lucknow on Friday, May 23. The defeat did not affect the franchise’s position in the tournament. It has secured its place in the top 4 and participation in the playoffs ahead of schedule. That being said, RCB can still even take the top spot in the group stage. They now have 17 points, while the Gujarat Titans (GT), who lead, have 18 but no games left. Royal Challengers have one last match left; if they win, they will be first. But it is essential to consider the result of the upcoming clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI), because if the former wins, they will also score 19 points.

Good news for RCB

The Royal Challengers have received some good news ahead of the playoffs. Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood, one of their leaders, has returned to the squad. He arrived on May 25 after missing two weeks due to a shoulder injury he sustained during the tournament’s group stage.

Hazlewood’s Impact on RCB’s Campaign 

Josh’s return comes at a crucial time for RCB. The team, led by Rajat Patidar, has already secured a playoff berth but is aiming for a top-two finish to gain an essential second chance in the knockout stage. Hazlewood’s presence is expected to strengthen RCB’s bowling attack. It struggled in his absence, particularly in their recent loss to SRH, where they conceded 231 runs.

The bowler last played for the Royal Challengers on April 27 against Delhi Capitals (DC) before returning home when the IPL was suspended due to India-Pakistan tensions. During his time away, Hazlewood underwent rehabilitation in Brisbane and trained with the Australian team in preparation for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. It will start on June 11 at Lord’s.

Excitement Surrounding Comeback

RCB’s official social media accounts confirmed Hazlewood’s return. It shared images and videos of his arrival in Lucknow with captions expressing excitement and welcoming him back. Josh expressed his enthusiasm, stating that he had made the most of his time at home and was looking forward to getting back into practice and contributing to the team’s efforts.

Hazlewood has been a significant asset for RCB this season. He took 18 wickets at an average of 17.27 and a strike rate of 12.27. His ability to take wickets with both the new ball and at the death has been crucial to the team’s success, making his return a significant boost as they prepare for the playoffs.

Looking Ahead

RCB has only one match left to play in the group stage of the 18th IPL season. Their opponent on May 27 will be Lucknow Super Giants, whom they have not faced in the current tournament. For LSG, this will be the last encounter of the season as they failed to make it to the playoffs.