Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans may soon see Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood back in action during IPL 2026. Reports suggest that the pacer is recovering from injury and could join the team after missing the first few matches of the season.
Hazlewood played a key role in RCB’s successful campaign last year, and his return could strengthen the team’s bowling attack again this season.
Possible Return Date for Josh Hazlewood
According to recent updates, Josh Hazlewood is expected to miss the first three matches of IPL 2026.
RCB will begin their season on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. After that, they face Chennai Super Kings on April 5 and Rajasthan Royals on April 10.
If recovery plans stay on track, Hazlewood may join the squad before RCB’s fourth match against Mumbai Indians on April 12 at Wankhede Stadium.
RCB Early IPL 2026 Fixtures
| Match | Opponent | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match 1 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | March 28 | Bengaluru |
| Match 2 | Chennai Super Kings | April 5 | Chennai |
| Match 3 | Rajasthan Royals | April 10 | Jaipur |
| Match 4 | Mumbai Indians | April 12 | Mumbai |
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Cricket Australia about his exact return date.
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Hazlewood’s Injury and Recovery Phase
Josh Hazlewood has been going through a long recovery process after suffering a hamstring injury.
Because of the injury, he missed important international tournaments including the Ashes series and the T20 World Cup 2026.
He was initially included in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad but was later released due to fitness concerns.
Australia struggled in the tournament without key fast bowlers like Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.
Hazlewood’s Performance in IPL 2025
Hazlewood was one of the standout performers for Royal Challengers Bengaluru during their title-winning IPL 2025 campaign.
He delivered consistent performances with the ball and became one of the most reliable bowlers in the team.
Josh Hazlewood IPL 2025 Stats
| Matches | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | 22 | 8.77 |
This was Hazlewood’s best IPL season in terms of wicket-taking and impact in the tournament.
Discussion Around IPL and National Duties
There has been some discussion about whether Hazlewood might prioritize the IPL or international cricket.
Australia selector Tony Dodemaide spoke about the situation and explained that it is mainly a matter of scheduling.
He noted that if the order of tournaments were reversed, players might miss the IPL to play for Australia in major international events. According to him, the team understands that players have commitments to represent their country.
Pat Cummins Also Uncertain for Early IPL Matches
Another Australian fast bowler, Pat Cummins, may also miss the early matches of IPL 2026.
Cummins is the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad, but his participation in the opening games is uncertain due to fitness concerns.
Australian Players with IPL 2026 Uncertainty
| Player | Team | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Hazlewood | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | May miss first three matches |
| Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Doubtful for early matches |
What Hazlewood’s Return Means for RCB
If Hazlewood returns before the match against Mumbai Indians on April 12, it would be a major boost for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
His experience, accuracy, and ability to bowl in powerplay and death overs make him a key part of the team’s bowling attack.
RCB will hope to have him available soon as they aim to continue their strong performance after winning their first IPL title in 2025.
