Josh Hazlewood’s Uncertain Return to IPL 2026 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru

By Vikram Nair / 27.03.2026

Will Josh Hazlewood be fit to play in the IPL 2026 season opener for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)? As of now, his participation remains uncertain due to ongoing rehabilitation from injuries.

Hazlewood has recently linked up with the RCB squad ahead of the IPL 2026 season. However, he was notably absent during the practice session on March 26 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, raising questions about his readiness for the upcoming matches.

The fast bowler missed the entire Ashes series and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup due to hamstring and Achilles tendon injuries. His absence from competitive cricket has been significant, as he was a key player for RCB last season, picking up 22 wickets in 12 games during their maiden IPL triumph.

Mo Bobat, RCB’s Director of Cricket, commented on Hazlewood’s situation, stating, “So, as most people would know, Josh has missed quite a bit of cricket recently with injuries.” He emphasized that the team is in close communication with both Hazlewood and Cricket Australia regarding his recovery.

Bobat also mentioned, “As soon as he gets to a point where Cricket Australia are happy, he’ll come over,” indicating that Hazlewood’s return is contingent upon approval from Cricket Australia.

As the IPL 2026 season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad approaches on March 28, the uncertainty surrounding Hazlewood’s fitness is a concern for RCB fans. Several overseas players, including Hazlewood, are expected to miss the start of the season due to injuries.

Currently, Hazlewood is continuing his rehab process back in Australia and has not played any competitive cricket since his injuries. Details remain unconfirmed regarding his exact timeline for return.

With the IPL season just around the corner, RCB will be hoping for a swift recovery for Hazlewood, who has proven to be an instrumental player in their previous campaign.