“Hazlewood arrived yesterday. He is looking fit,” said Andy Flower, the head coach of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), as the team prepared for their opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Josh Hazlewood, a pivotal player for RCB, was retained for the 2026 season despite a challenging period of rehabilitation from hamstring and Achilles injuries. His absence was felt keenly as he missed both The Ashes 2025-26 and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, last stepping onto the international stage in October 2025.
Hazlewood’s impressive performance in the previous IPL season, where he took 22 wickets in just 12 matches with an average of 17.55 and an economy rate of 8.77, has left fans eager for his return.
“It is great to have him here in our dressing room and in the meetings,” Flower added, highlighting the positive impact Hazlewood’s presence brings to the team dynamic.
RCB’s captain for IPL 2026, Rajat Patidar, expressed confidence in the team’s prospects, stating, “We are not defending anything, we will win in IPL 2026 as well.” This sentiment reflects the team’s determination to build on their maiden title victory in IPL 2025.
In the match against SRH, RCB won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that set the stage for an exciting contest. Jacob Duffy, a new addition to the squad, made an immediate impact by taking three wickets in his first three overs, showcasing the depth of talent within the team.
Ishan Kishan, another key player, emphasized the importance of trusting their instincts, saying, “We want to back our instincts.” This approach could prove vital as RCB aims to navigate the challenges of the tournament.
As Hazlewood continues his recovery, fans are hopeful for his swift return to form, eager to see him back in action on the field. The upcoming matches will be crucial for both the player and the team as they strive for success in IPL 2026.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding Hazlewood’s exact return date to competitive play, but his presence at the stadium is a promising sign for RCB supporters.
