Royal Challengers Bengaluru received great news recently. Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood plans to return for the IPL 2026 season. This news brings hope to the team and its fans after a difficult period for the player.
Hazlewood missed the T20 World Cup 2026 because of a calf injury. His absence deeply hurt the Australian team. They lacked his steady bowling and his ability to take wickets early in the game. He also dealt with hamstring and Achilles problems earlier in the year. These injuries forced him to sit out while his teammates played.
Australia Selects Steve Smith as Injury Replacement
The injury to Hazlewood forced Australia to change their squad for the global tournament. Cricket Australia requested a player swap from the ICC. They chose veteran batter Steve Smith to take the open spot. Selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed that the medical team needed more time for Hazlewood to recover. The team hoped he might return for the later stages of the event. However, the risk of a new injury was too high. This decision kept Hazlewood out of the World Cup entirely.
Now, the focus has shifted to his recovery. Medical experts believe he can regain full fitness before the IPL begins. This timing is perfect for RCB. Hazlewood is a key part of their bowling attack. He bowls with great control and hits difficult lengths for batters. He helps the team during the first few overs and also at the end of the innings.
The Australian team missed both Hazlewood and Pat Cummins during their recent tournament exit. However, the current schedule allows these players to focus on their health. Hazlewood is working hard on his rehabilitation right now. If everything goes well, he will lead the RCB pace attack once again. Fans are eager to see him back on the field in the famous red and gold jersey. His return makes the team much stronger for the upcoming season.
