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Key Points

Josh Hazlewood's return to RCB marks a significant moment in their IPL 2025 campaign, bringing critical bowling strength after recovering from a shoulder injury. The Australian pacer has been the team's leading wicket-taker with 18 scalps in just 10 matches, maintaining an impressive average of 17.27. His comeback comes at a crucial time, with RCB already qualified for playoffs but seeking a top-two finish for strategic advantage. Hazlewood's return not only strengthens RCB's bowling lineup but also positions him favorably for the upcoming World Test Championship final.

Key Points: Josh Hazlewood Returns to RCB for IPL 2025 Playoff Push

  • Hazlewood returns with 18 wickets after injury-enforced absence
  • RCB aims for top-two playoff finish
  • Crucial boost for team's championship prospects
  • Comeback positions him for World Test Championship
2 min read

IPL 2025: Hazlewood rejoins RCB squad ahead of playoffs

RCB's top wicket-taker Josh Hazlewood rejoins squad after injury, boosting playoff hopes with crucial comeback

IPL 2025: Hazlewood rejoins RCB squad ahead of playoffs
"The good thing for RCB is that they will play the last game and they will know exactly where they stand - Anil Kumble"

New Delhi, May 25

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Josh Hazlewood has rejoined the squad after recovering from a shoulder injury ahead of their final league game and the IPL 2025 playoffs.

Hazlewood, RCB’s leading wicket-taker this season with 18 scalps from just 10 matches, had been out of action since April 27. He returned to Australia during the IPL's brief suspension following cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.

He completed rehab at home and resumed training in Brisbane as part of Australia's preparation for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. Having come through those sessions successfully, he is now back with the RCB squad.

RCB have already qualified for the playoffs but took a hit in their quest for a top-two finish after losing a high-scoring thriller to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday. Hazlewood’s return is timely, as a top-two finish would offer them the cushion of two chances to reach the final.

Former India coach Anil Kumble highlighted the advantage RCB hold after Hazlewood's addition.

"The good thing for RCB is that they will play the last game and they will know exactly where they stand and what they need to do," he said on ESPNcricinfo's Time Out.

Despite his recent absence, Hazlewood remains the fourth-highest wicket-taker in IPL 2025. His 18 wickets have come at an average of 17.27 and an economy rate of 8.44, underscoring his importance across all phases of the innings. Behind him for RCB are left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya with 15 wickets and pacer Yash Dayal with 10.

In Hazlewood's absence, Lungi Ngidi was given a run but struggled to replicate the Australian’s impact. Ngidi will be unavailable for the playoffs due to international duties with South Africa. Nuwan Thushara hasn’t featured yet this season, and while Blessing Muzarabani has been signed as a replacement, his limited experience at this level makes Hazlewood’s return all the more vital.

This IPL season marked Hazlewood’s comeback after an injury-riddled home summer in which he missed several fixtures due to a calf strain and a side injury. These setbacks had kept him out of the third Test against India, the tour of Sri Lanka, and the Champions Trophy. However, he's now in strong contention to start in the WTC final, likely replacing Scott Boland after narrowly missing the 2023 final against India due to injury.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the IPL 2025 article about Hazlewood rejoining RCB:
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Rahul K.
Hazlewood's return is exactly what RCB needs! His economy rate under 9 is gold in this high-scoring season. Hope he stays fit for playoffs and WTC final. Aussie players always give 110% in IPL 💪 #PlayBold
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Priya M.
While I'm happy for RCB, I wish Indian pacers got more chances instead of relying on foreign players. Our domestic talent like Mayank Yadav showed what they can do when given opportunities. BCCI should think about more Indian player quotas.
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Arjun S.
Perfect timing! RCB's death bowling was exposed against SRH. Hazlewood brings that experience and control. Hope he partners well with Siraj now. Ee sala cup namde! 🏆
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Sneha R.
Interesting how he left during the India-Pakistan tensions but came back when RCB needed him. Shows how IPL transcends politics. Cricket truly connects nations! Though I wish he'd shown more commitment by staying in India for rehab.
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Vikram J.
His stats speak for themselves - 18 wickets at 17 avg! But hope RCB doesn't overuse him before WTC final. As an Indian cricket fan, I want him fresh for that match against our team 😉 Smart management needed!
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Neha P.
RCB's playoff chances just got brighter! But they need to fix their middle order too. Only Kohli can't do everything. Hope Maxwell finds form and Hazlewood gets good support from Indian bowlers. #RCBforTheCup

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