Josh Hazlewood Injury Update: Good news has come for the fans of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The team’s star Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has reached India for IPL 2026 and has joined the team camp in Bengaluru. Hazlewood, who was suffering from injury recently, now seems to be fit to a great extent, which has brought great relief to the team.
Hazlewood will not be able to play in the initial matches
The first match of IPL 2026 will be played between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, despite Hazlewood joining the team, there is news that he will not be available in the first one or two matches. According to reports, the team management wants to give him time to become fully fit, so that he can play with full strength in the upcoming matches. At present, no official statement has come from the franchise on this.
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— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) March 26, 2026
Awaiting Cricket Australia’s approval
Hazlewood’s match fitness will entirely depend on Cricket Australia’s medical clearance. Given Australia’s upcoming busy schedule, the board does not want to take any risks. If there is even the slightest doubt about his fitness, his return may be delayed. In such a situation, RCB may have to change its bowling combination in the initial matches.
Increased pressure on bowling attack
The possible absence of Hazlewood could become a challenge for RCB. The team is already troubled by the exclusion of Indian fast bowler Yash Dayal. In such a situation, the team management can give a chance to Jacob Duffy in the playing eleven. Apart from this, all-rounder Krunal Pandya will be expected to play an important role in the middle overs. He had performed brilliantly last season and this time too the team has high expectations from him.
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Keep an eye on RCB team
This season, the captaincy of RCB is in the hands of Rajat Patidar, while experienced players like Virat Kohli are also part of the team. Apart from this, players like Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Phil Salt will be seen strengthening the team. Overall, Hazlewood’s return is a positive sign for RCB, but the uncertainty surrounding his availability could pose a challenge for the team in the initial matches.
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