Image: Hazlewood rejoins RCB squad ahead of IPL qualifiers / © Mint
After the IPL 2025 resumed on May 17, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) received a major boost with news of Josh Hazlewood’s imminent return. The Australian fast bowler, who had been recovering from a shoulder injury, is expected to join the RCB squad by Sunday, May 25, just ahead of Qualifier 1. Hazlewood, currently training at the Centre of Excellence in Brisbane, has resumed bowling and is ready to strengthen RCB’s pace attack during the crucial playoff stage.
Hazlewood has struggled with injuries in recent years, including a calf strain and his latest shoulder issue, which had interrupted an otherwise successful IPL 2025 season. Before his injury, he took 18 wickets in 10 matches and emerged as RCB’s top wicket-taker and the third-highest overall in the season. Purchased for Rs 12.5 crores in the last mega auction, his consistent death bowling has been pivotal for RCB.
RCB secured a playoff berth on May 18 and currently sits second on the points table with 17 points from 12 games. With overseas stars like Phil Salt and Tim David already back, Hazlewood’s return could significantly boost RCB’s title chances as they aim to break their championship drought.