Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) mentor Dinesh Karthik has offered a hopeful update on the availability of key players Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt ahead of the team’s next IPL 2025 match. Both players missed RCB’s recent thrilling victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium due to fitness and health concerns.
Why Did Hazlewood and Salt Miss the CSK Match?
Josh Hazlewood was sidelined due to a shoulder niggle. Despite his absence, RCB managed to secure a narrow two-run win over CSK.
Phil Salt missed his second consecutive match as he continues to recover from an illness that developed recently.
Karthik’s Update on Their Return
Speaking after the win against CSK, Dinesh Karthik expressed optimism about the duo’s comeback:
“Fingers crossed. We’re hopeful to have Phil Salt and Hazlewood back for the next game,” Karthik told Star Sports.
RCB’s next game is scheduled for Friday, May 9, against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium.
Importance of Hazlewood and Salt to RCB
Josh Hazlewood has been a standout bowler for RCB this season, claiming 18 wickets in 10 matches at an impressive average of 17.27 and an economy rate of 8.44. His performances have included crucial breakthroughs and tight death-over bowling, making him one of the top wicket-takers in IPL 2025.
Phil Salt has been a key opener alongside Virat Kohli, providing explosive starts. He has scored 239 runs in nine innings with a striking strike rate of 168.30, often setting the tone for RCB’s innings.
What Happened in the CSK Match Without Them?
Despite missing Hazlewood and Salt, RCB edged out CSK in a high-scoring thriller:
Virat Kohli (62) and Jacob Bethell (55) provided solid starts.
Romario Shepherd’s blistering unbeaten 53 off 14 balls powered RCB to 213/5.
Yash Dayal stepped up in Hazlewood’s absence, bowling a crucial final over to help seal the win.
CSK’s Ayush Mhatre scored a brilliant 94, but the team fell short by just two runs.
Looking Ahead: RCB vs LSG
With Hazlewood and Salt expected back, RCB will be aiming to maintain their top position on the points table as they face LSG next. Their return will bolster both the bowling attack and the batting lineup, providing a significant boost for the playoff push.
FAQs
1. Why did Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt miss the recent RCB match?
Hazlewood was sidelined due to a shoulder niggle, while Salt missed the game recovering from an illness.
2. When are Hazlewood and Salt expected to return?
Mentor Dinesh Karthik is hopeful both will return for RCB’s next IPL match against Lucknow Super Giants on May 9.
3. How important are Hazlewood and Salt to RCB?
Hazlewood is RCB’s leading wicket-taker with 18 wickets, and Salt is a key opener with 239 runs at a strike rate of 168.30 this season.
4. How did RCB manage to win against CSK without them?
Strong performances from Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, and Yash Dayal helped RCB secure a narrow two-run victory.
5. What is RCB’s current standing in IPL 2025?
RCB is currently at the top of the points table with eight wins and three losses from 11 matches.
Conclusion
The return of Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt will be a major boost for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they continue their charge in IPL 2025. Mentor Dinesh Karthik’s positive update brings relief to fans eager to see the duo back in action, strengthening RCB’s chances in the crucial matches ahead.