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Hazlewood's Hard Length Secret Powers RCB's IPL 2026 Campaign

Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Josh Hazlewood attributes his T20 success to consistently bowling a hard length to pressure batters. He reflected positively on his return from injury, noting the importance of the recovery process. Hazlewood praised skipper Rajat Patidar's growing confidence and composure in leadership. He also confirmed Virat Kohli will play against Delhi Capitals, highlighting his energy and fielding impact.

Key Points: Josh Hazlewood on RCB Success, Kohli's Role & Bowling Balance

  • Hazlewood's hard-length strategy
  • Praise for captain Patidar
  • Kohli's expected playing role
  • Balanced RCB bowling attack
  • Importance of pitch adaptation
3 min read

IPL 2026: My strength lies in hitting hard length consistently, says RCB's Hazlewood

RCB's Josh Hazlewood reveals his T20 bowling philosophy, discusses Virat Kohli's fitness, and praises team balance ahead of key IPL 2026 clash vs DC.

"My strength is hitting that hard length consistently and making it difficult for batters to score. - Josh Hazlewood"

Bengaluru, April 17

Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Josh Hazlewood said the key to his success in the shortest format comes from sticking to his strengths, as the defending champions prepare to face Delhi Capitals in their Indian Premier League 2026 fixture at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

RCB, currently on eight points, will look to further consolidate their position on the points table, and a win over DC would get them to reclaim top spot in the points table. "My strength is hitting that hard length consistently and making it difficult for batters to score. In T20 cricket, it's about executing that under pressure and adapting when needed.

"With the way T20 cricket is going, the expectations on batters are very high. If you can build a few quiet deliveries, the pressure can shift quickly and create opportunities," Hazlewood said in the pre-game press conference, ahead of the clash where RCB will also don their iconic green jerseys as part of the franchise's 'Green Initiative'.

Hazlewood, who returned from injury with a Player of the Match performance against Lucknow Super Giants, reflected on his recovery process. "It's been really pleasing to be back and contributing again. You learn a lot from time away due to injury, especially about respecting the recovery process. The focus has been on coming back fully ready and performing at this level."

"The other night, the pitch actually helped a little bit. It was hard to time the ball; the pitch was a bit up-and-down. If you're on a nice glassy pitch and everything's coming onto the bat nicely, then things have to change, and you try a few different things," he said.

He also praised skipper Rajat Patidar's composure. "He's learning quickly and getting more confident as a captain. He's calm out there and manages his resources well, which is great for the team."

On Virat Kohli's role in Saturday's clash, Hazlewood said, "He'll definitely play, it's just about how much he can contribute in the field. He brings great energy and is one of our best fielders, so we'd love to have him fully out there. Knowing him, he's not one to sit back; he always wants to be involved and make an impact."

Highlighting the balance in RCB's bowling unit, Hazlewood signed off by saying, "We've got a really balanced attack, with everyone bringing something different. It's great to learn from each other, and that's been a big strength for us as a unit."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to hear his perspective on adapting to different pitches. That's what separates the good bowlers from the great ones. Also, great to see the focus on the Green Initiative. Small steps matter! 🌿
A
Ananya R
So happy to see him back and performing! His injury comeback story is inspiring. But honestly, the real test will be on a flat Chinnaswamy track. Can't wait for the match tomorrow! 🤞
V
Vikram M
Respect for his skills, but I have to say, the article feels a bit too positive. What about the times he's been expensive? A bit more critical analysis would be good. Still, hoping for a good game.
K
Karthik V
His praise for Patidar is spot on. The young captain is growing into the role nicely. And having a leader like Kohli in the field, even if not at 100%, is a huge boost. Team looks balanced this year.
P
Priya S
Consistency is key in T20s, and he's right about building pressure. Two quiet deliveries and the batter starts taking risks. Smart cricket. Let's go RCB! Need those two points to go top of the table.

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