Australian pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood is reportedly on the path to recovery and is targeting a return to competitive cricket during the IPL 2026 season. The veteran fast bowler has been sidelined since November 2025, when a calf injury during a Sheffield Shield match for New South Wales derailed his season.
The injury was a significant blow to Australia’s international campaigns, as Hazlewood was forced to miss the entire home Ashes series and the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup. While selectors initially held a spot for him in the World Cup squad hoping for a Super 8 return, his inability to reach full fitness led to veteran batter Steve Smith being named as his official injury replacement.
Strategic Timing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Despite the disappointment for the national side, the timing of the cricket calendar appears to have aligned in favor of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Australian selector Tony Dodemaide noted that the current schedule allows Hazlewood to focus entirely on his rehabilitation for the franchise league, whereas he might have skipped the IPL had it been scheduled before the World Cup.
- Proven Impact: Hazlewood was a cornerstone of RCB’s maiden title win in 2025, taking 22 wickets in just 12 matches.
- Retained Asset: The 35-year-old remains a key part of the franchise’s strategy, having been retained for 12.50 crore ahead of the 2026 season.
- Leadership Support: He will return to a squad captained by Rajat Patidar and featuring stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
A Contrasting Fortnight for Australia and RCB
The news of Hazlewood’s progress provides a morale boost for RCB fans, coming shortly after the franchise celebrated its first-ever trophy. In stark contrast, the Australian national team has struggled in his absence, suffering a shock group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup following unexpected defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka.
With the pace bowler now working through a dedicated “return to play” program, RCB is optimistic that their primary strike bowler will be ready to lead the attack as they attempt to defend their title.
