Josh Hazlewood to Return for IPL 2026 in Major Relief for RCB

RCB fans, here is the news you have been waiting for. Josh Hazlewood is targeting a return to competitive cricket in time for IPL 2026. After months on the sidelines, the Australian pace ace could be back in red and gold, and that is massive news for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Australia Paid the Price Without Hazlewood at the T20 World Cup

Hazlewood had been managing a hamstring injury since November 12. His recovery hit more complications as Achilles and calf issues crept in. Australian selectors hoped he would return by the Super 8 stage, but Cricket Australia’s medical team ruled that out. Rushing the recovery carried too much risk.

RCB fast bowler Josh Hazlewood — **Source:** ESPN Cricinfo

Selector Tony Dodemaide confirmed the blow at the time, noting the team had hoped for a Super 8 comeback but Hazlewood was still some way off. Steve Smith stepped in as his replacement, but Australia lacked that new-ball bite. They exited in the group stage, and Hazlewood’s absence was a key factor.

The Schedule Quirk That Benefits RCB

Here is where it gets exciting for RCB. Dodemaide pointed out that if the IPL had come before the World Cup, both Hazlewood and Pat Cummins would have skipped the league for international duty. But the schedule ran the other way. With the World Cup now done, both players can focus entirely on franchise cricket. Hazlewood has no international commitments pulling him away. IPL 2026 is the target, and RCB stands to benefit greatly.

Why Hazlewood is a Game-Changer for RCB

Hazlewood brings something very specific to RCB’s pace attack. His accuracy in the powerplay forces batters onto the back foot before they settle. He hits the hard length consistently and creates trouble with movement. At the death, he delivers yorkers and slower balls under pressure without losing control.

That ability to bowl at both ends of the innings makes him a rare asset in T20 cricket. RCB’s attack looks sharper and more balanced when he plays. Getting him back fit for IPL 2026 could be the difference between a strong campaign and a forgettable one.

Australia will review their group-stage exit and learn from the absence of key players. For now, the focus is on Hazlewood’s rehabilitation. If all goes to plan, IPL 2026 will mark his return to the game. RCB fans have every reason to be excited about what that could mean for their side.

Stay tuned for more updates on Josh Hazlewood’s fitness and RCB’s IPL 2026 preparations.