The build-up to IPL 2026 is an exciting one, but the availability of Josh Hazlewood is now a worrying thought on the minds of Royal Challengers Bengaluru supporters after their historic winning season in the previous edition of the tournament.
Josh Hazlewood Set to Miss Opening Matches
Recent reports indicate that Josh Hazlewood is expected to miss the opening two matches of IPL 2026. These matches are expected to be against:
- Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Chennai Super Kings
Injury Concerns and Recovery Timeline
Cricket Australia’s medical staff are overseeing Hazlewood’s rehabilitation process at this time. Per reports:
There has been no clear to travel given yet
Recovery is being monitored carefully with an emphasis on preventing long-term consequences from this injury. The 2026 T20 World Cup has also been missed because of these same injuries. Because of this conservative approach, RCB must play the first part of the tournament without a key bowler.
Why Hazlewood Is Vital for RCB
20 wickets taken by Hazlewood in 12 games
17.55 was his overall batting average for the season’s playoffs. Power play and death overs are where he excels with accuracy, bounce, and control.
His ability to limit runs and create opportunities for RCB to not only get off to a fast start but also keep the score down has made him one of RCB’s most valuable players.
When Will Josh Hazlewood Join RCB In IPL 2026?
According to current information, Hazlewood should rejoin the team sometime after the first two games unless he doesn’t get cleared from the doctor on time. This means that Hazlewood should be back within the first part of the tournament, and have enough time to keep himself healthy and available for most of the games in the season.
Impact on RCB’s Strategy
RCB will have to alter their approach due to the loss of Hazlewood. This includes:
Reassessing which bowlers can bowl together in the powerplay
Leaning towards using domestic fast bowling as opposed to international fast bowling
Paying close attention to the balance of overseas players
As the team has a lot of depth, the momentum from last year’s success will allow RCB to remain competitive, even with this setback.
ALSO READ: When Will Pat Cummins Join SRH In IPL 2026?
