Josh Hazlewood Returns to RCB for IPL 2025 Restart Despite Injury Concerns
Josh Hazlewood to rejoin RCB as IPL 2025 resumes, despite shoulder concerns; RCB faces KKR in restart opener.
Australian star bowler Josh Hazlewood will rejoin Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as the IPL 2025 season resumes, ending days of uncertainty about his availability. Hazlewood had been dealing with a shoulder niggle, which had cast doubt over whether he would be fit to play in the second half of the tournament.
Despite the injury concern, RCB fans will be relieved to know that Hazlewood is expected to be back with the squad. He has already taken 18 wickets this season and has been a vital part of RCB’s pace attack.
Hazlewood’s return comes at a crucial time. The IPL had been suspended midway due to rising India-Pakistan tensions and a stadium blackout incident during the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala. Now, with the tournament set to resume, teams are quickly trying to regain momentum.
RCB will be the first team in action when the IPL restarts. They are scheduled to play against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the opening game after the break. Currently, RCB sits second on the points table, while KKR is in sixth place.
The clash between these two sides will be important for both teams. RCB will want to continue their strong run, while KKR will be looking to climb into the top four. Hazlewood’s presence gives RCB an edge, but it will depend on whether he is fully fit to bowl his quota of overs.
If RCB can manage Hazlewood’s workload well, his experience and form could play a major role in their push for the playoffs and possibly their first IPL title.
