Good News for RCB ahead of IPL 2026; Josh Hazlewood set to make return through THIS tournament

Hazlewood was ruled out of Ashes 2025-26 following a hamstring injury.

Josh Hazlewood has been one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket, dominating all three formats with his accuracy, bounce, and consistency. Every team he represents values his presence and impact. The 34-year-old played a crucial role last year in helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru win their first-ever trophy in their 18-year history.

He finished the season as RCB’s leading wicket-taker, delivering outstanding spells in both the powerplay and death overs. However, the Australian pacer has had a long history of injury concerns. During the recent Ashes Test series, Hazlewood was ruled out due to a hamstring injury.

While recovering from that setback, he suffered another blow with an Achilles issue, further delaying his return. Despite these challenges, recent reports suggest that Hazlewood could be nearing a comeback to competitive cricket, bringing much-needed relief and excitement to his fans and teams alike.

Hazlewood to make a return in BBL 15

As the T20 World Cup 2026 draws closer, players are increasingly prioritising T20 cricket to build momentum and be at their best.

Josh Hazlewood, who is returning from injury, has joined the Sydney Sixers for the 15th season of the Big Bash League and will feature for the Moises Henriques-led side.

The right-arm seamer last played in the BBL in 2019 and is set to make his return after a gap of seven years. In the Big Bash League, a supplementary contract allows franchises to sign high-profile Cricket Australia contracted players who may have limited availability due to national duties.

Hazlewood’s inclusion significantly strengthens the Sydney Sixers’ squad, especially with the likes of Mitchell Starc and Steve Smith also expected to join the team after the fifth Ashes Test.

The experienced pacer has also been named in Australia’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, underlining his importance in the national setup as he returns to full fitness.

Good news for RCB ahead of IPL 2026

The news of Josh’s return to cricket will excite Royal Challengers Bengaluru and their fans, as he remains the team’s premier fast bowler for the upcoming season.

Hazlewood played a massive role in RCB’s success last year, picking up 22 wickets in just 12 matches and finishing as the franchise’s leading wicket-taker. His injury scare had earlier worried RCB supporters, but seeing him back on the field will come as a big relief.

Hazlewood has been retained by RCB for IPL 2026 at a price of INR 12.50 crore, and if he stays fit and maintains his form, fans could once again witness him dominating the IPL just as he did last season.

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