How many games will Josh Hazlewood miss for RCB in IPL 2026? Revealed
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Josh Hazlewood was instrumental for RCB in their title-winning season in IPL 2025.
The situation surrounding the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is currently filled with anticipation and tension as franchises finalise their plans for the upcoming summer season. Supporters of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) remain particularly vocal following their historic championship win, but the mood around the Chinnaswamy Stadium feels slightly tense due to emerging selection dilemmas.
Every preseason brings these moments of uncertainty where player fitness ends up shaping the fate of big-money investments. Team managements are now trying to balance their overseas combinations while keeping a close watch on the recovery of their main strike bowlers under the supervision of international medical teams.
Josh Hazlewood set to miss first two games for RCB in IPL 2026
Cricbuzz recently reported that Josh Hazlewood will likely miss the first two matches of RCB against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026 due to ongoing fitness issues. This situation is linked to a lingering Achilles problem and a recurring hamstring strain that had earlier kept the tall pacer out during Australia’s summer. He also missed the T20 World Cup 2026 due to same.
Since he remains under the supervision of Cricket Australia’s medical staff, he cannot travel until he is officially cleared. As a result, the Bengaluru side will have to rethink their powerplay plans for the opening matches as their key overseas bowler continues his recovery in Australia to stay fit for the long run.
The Australian seamer has been a crucial player for the franchise, picking up 22 wickets in just 12 matches during their 2025 title-winning campaign at an impressive average of 17.55. Over time, he has built a reputation for his accuracy and ability to extract bounce, which troubles even the best batters in world cricket.
Hazlewood’s quality as a top international bowler allows him to control runs effectively in the death overs with smart execution and strong game awareness. As an important part of Australia’s pace attack, his absence creates a big gap that the RCB will need to fill using their domestic bench strength.
Why will Josh Hazlewood miss the opening matches for RCB in the 2026 season?
He must remain in Australia to rehabilitate persistent Achilles and hamstring injuries until the national medical staff grants him formal fitness clearance.
How did Josh Hazlewood perform in IPL 2025?
The Australian fast bowler claimed 22 wickets across 12 matches while maintaining a dominant bowling average of 17.55.
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