Hazlewood set to rejoin RCB squad for IPL playoffs after injury recovery
The Australian fast bowler had left the tournament midway due to a minor shoulder injury.
Josh Hazlewood is expected to return to the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad ahead of the Indian Premier League playoffs, according to reports, offering a timely boost to the side's title ambitions.
The Australian fast bowler had left the tournament midway due to a minor shoulder injury. He remained in Brisbane to complete his rehabilitation but is now primed to link up with RCB before the knockout stage.
Hazlewood has been in excellent form this season, claiming 18 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 17.27. His availability strengthens RCB's push for the IPL crown, particularly as they look to secure a top-two finish and gain the advantage of a potential second shot at reaching the final.
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According to ESPNcricinfo, Hazlewood and fellow Australian Josh Inglis—currently with Punjab Kings—will join their respective national teammates in the UK after the conclusion of their IPL commitments. The rest of the Australian squad is scheduled to depart India on 29 may in preparation for the World Test Championship final, which begins on 11 june.
This will be Hazlewood's maiden WTC final appearance, having missed the 2023 edition against India due to Achilles and side injuries. He also sat out two Test matches during India's visit last December and subsequently missed the Champions Trophy and the tour of Sri Lanka.
With less than a week to prepare for the WTC final upon arrival in England, Hazlewood is expected to make the most of his remaining match time in the IPL to fine-tune his rhythm.
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper Pat Cummins and opening batter Travis Head are due to fly back to Australia on 25 may, while Mitchell Starc has opted against rejoining the IPL following his early departure from Delhi Capitals.
