Josh Hazlewood’s Injury Puts IPL 2025 Return in Doubt
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood’s stellar run in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) has hit an unexpected hurdle. As the tournament faces a brief suspension, Hazlewood’s participation for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is now in serious doubt due to a troubling shoulder injury. With the IPL set to resume soon, RCB fans and management are anxiously awaiting updates on their leading wicket-taker’s fitness and availability.
What Happened to Josh Hazlewood?
Hazlewood, a cornerstone of RCB’s bowling attack this season, picked up a shoulder niggle during the match against Delhi Capitals. The injury forced him to miss RCB’s next clash and left him doubtful for subsequent fixtures before the IPL was suspended due to external circumstances.
Despite his injury, Hazlewood was in sensational form:
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18 wickets in just 10 matches
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Economy rate of 8.44
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Leading wicket-taker for RCB this season
His absence is a significant blow for RCB, who are currently second on the points table and eyeing their maiden IPL title.
Why Hazlewood’s Return Looks Unlikely
Several factors are clouding Hazlewood’s potential return to the IPL if the tournament resumes:
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Shoulder Injury: The primary concern is his ongoing shoulder niggle, which has not healed completely and requires careful management.
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Recent Injury History: Hazlewood has been battling fitness issues, including a calf injury and side strain earlier in the season, making his workload a sensitive issue.
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Upcoming International Commitments: Cricket Australia is prioritizing Hazlewood’s participation in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s. He is expected to join Australia’s conditioning camp in the UK in early June, making a quick return to India for the IPL logistically challenging and risky for his long-term fitness.
Cricket Australia has made it clear that players’ decisions about returning to the IPL will be respected, and there will be no undue pressure from the board.
Impact on RCB’s Campaign
Hazlewood’s absence leaves a significant void in RCB’s bowling department, especially as the team approaches the business end of the tournament. Here’s how his injury could affect the franchise:
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Bowling Depth: RCB will need to rely more on overseas pacers like Lungi Ngidi, who has limited IPL experience but showed promise in his only outing this season.
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Team Balance: With other key players like Devdutt Padikkal already ruled out due to injury, RCB’s squad depth will be tested as they chase a playoff spot.
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Leadership and Experience: Hazlewood’s calm under pressure and ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs have been vital for RCB’s success this season.
What’s Next for Hazlewood and RCB?
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Hazlewood is expected to continue his rehabilitation in Australia, focusing on regaining full fitness ahead of the WTC final.
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RCB will need to quickly adapt their strategies and possibly reshuffle their bowling combinations to compensate for his absence.
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The IPL is set to resume soon, but RCB’s title hopes may hinge on how well they cope without their star pacer.
FAQs About Josh Hazlewood’s Injury and IPL Return
Q1: What injury is Josh Hazlewood suffering from?
Josh Hazlewood is dealing with a shoulder niggle that forced him to miss recent IPL matches and puts his return in doubt if the tournament resumes.
Q2: Will Josh Hazlewood play in the remainder of IPL 2025?
As of now, Hazlewood’s return looks unlikely due to his injury and upcoming commitments with Australia’s Test squad for the WTC final.
Q3: How has Hazlewood performed in IPL 2025 so far?
He has been RCB’s leading wicket-taker, claiming 18 wickets in 10 matches with an economy rate of 8.44.
Q4: Who could replace Hazlewood in the RCB lineup?
RCB may turn to Lungi Ngidi or other overseas pacers to fill the gap left by Hazlewood’s absence.
Q5: Is Hazlewood expected to play in the WTC final?
Yes, Cricket Australia expects Hazlewood to be fit and available for the World Test Championship final against South Africa.
Conclusion: RCB Face a Crucial Test Without Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood’s injury is a major setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they gear up for the IPL’s resumption. With his return looking doubtful and the WTC final on the horizon, RCB must regroup and find new heroes if they hope to keep their title dreams alive. For Hazlewood, the focus now shifts to recovery and representing Australia on the world stage-leaving IPL fans hoping for his swift and successful comeback.