Injury – RCB Faces Uncertainty Over Josh Hazlewood Ahead of IPL 2026 Opener
Injury – Royal Challengers Bengaluru may have to prepare for a potential setback ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season, as Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is still working his way back to full fitness. The experienced pacer has not yet been cleared by medical staff following a series of injuries, leaving his availability for IPL 2026 uncertain. Sources close to the development indicate that the final decision on his participation will depend entirely on his recovery in the coming weeks.
Recovery Status Still Under Medical Review
Hazlewood, who is currently 35, continues to receive treatment and rehabilitation under the supervision of physiotherapists. Medical clearance is yet to be granted, which means the franchise must wait before confirming whether he will be ready in time for the tournament. According to individuals familiar with the situation, the team is closely monitoring his progress but has not made any final call.
People involved in the discussions suggest that there is still time before the tournament begins, but the situation remains uncertain. If the fast bowler regains full fitness and receives clearance from the medical staff, he could rejoin the squad. Until then, the franchise remains in a wait-and-see phase regarding his participation.
IPL 2026 Set to Begin With Defending Champions
The Indian Premier League 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 28. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions, will start their campaign with a high-profile opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
After lifting their first IPL title last season, expectations around the franchise are naturally high. The team management is eager to begin the new season with a full-strength squad, which makes Hazlewood’s fitness situation particularly important for their bowling plans.
Hazlewood’s Impact During Title-Winning Season
The Australian quick played a significant role in Bengaluru’s championship run during the previous IPL campaign. He finished the season as the franchise’s most successful bowler, claiming 22 wickets in just 12 matches. His disciplined line and ability to control the pace attack made him one of the standout performers of the tournament.
However, Hazlewood has not appeared in competitive cricket since November 2025. He has been recovering from hamstring and calf injuries that have kept him out of several major events. These fitness concerns forced him to miss the 2025–26 Ashes series as well as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup earlier this year. Those absences have added to the uncertainty surrounding his readiness for the IPL.
Possible Overseas Options If Replacement Needed
Should Hazlewood fail to regain full fitness before the tournament begins, Royal Challengers Bengaluru may need to consider alternative overseas fast-bowling options. The franchise has several potential candidates who could strengthen the pace department if required.
Australian all-rounder Sean Abbott could be one of the players under consideration. Known for his pace and ability to contribute with the bat, Abbott has gained valuable experience through Australia’s domestic competitions and international T20 cricket, including the Big Bash League.
South African pacer Gerald Coetzee may also emerge as a viable option. The fast bowler attracted attention during the 2023 ODI World Cup with his aggressive pace and wicket-taking ability. He also has prior experience in the IPL, having represented Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans in previous seasons.
Another possible candidate is Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson. The right-arm pacer, who has previously featured for Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, recently played a key role in Perth Scorchers’ success in the Big Bash League. Richardson is widely regarded for his versatility, particularly his ability to bowl effectively in both the powerplay and the final overs.
Team Monitoring Situation Before Final Decision
With the tournament still a short time away, Royal Challengers Bengaluru is expected to carefully track Hazlewood’s recovery process before making any decisions. The management will likely wait for a definitive medical update before exploring replacement options.
For now, the defending champions remain hopeful that the experienced pacer will regain fitness in time to lead their bowling attack once again when IPL 2026 gets underway.