'Josh Hazlewood's IPL 2026 Return Depends on Cricket Australia': RCB Director Mo Bobat
Synopsis
RCB's Mo Bobat reveals that Josh Hazlewood's return for IPL 2026 hinges on Cricket Australia's approval of his recovery. As the franchise remains in contact with medical teams, they are optimistic about his eventual comeback.
Key Takeaways
Josh Hazlewood's return to RCB depends on Cricket Australia's assessment of his recovery.
Hazlewood has been out since November due to a hamstring injury.
RCB has domestic players ready to fill in for Hazlewood.
RCB's IPL 2026 campaign starts on March 28.
Bengaluru, March 24 (NationPress) The director of cricket for the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Mo Bobat, has indicated that Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will only rejoin the team for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) once Cricket Australia is confident in his recovery progress.
Bobat mentioned that the franchise is maintaining close communication with Cricket Australia and their medical staff as Hazlewood continues his rehabilitation program in Australia.
Hazlewood was instrumental in RCB's victorious run during IPL 2025 but has been sidelined since he sustained a hamstring injury in the Sheffield Shield last November. He also missed the recently held T20 World Cup 2026 as he had not fully recovered.
The 35-year-old bowler is currently under the management of Cricket Australia and is expected to miss the initial matches of IPL 2026. His return date has yet to be determined.
"As many are aware, Josh has been out of action for a significant period due to injuries, and he is currently undergoing a return-to-play program in Australia. We are in constant contact with him and Cricket Australia, and our medical teams are collaborating closely on his recovery plan," Bobat conveyed during a press conference on Tuesday.
"We will keep communicating with them, and once he reaches a stage where Cricket Australia is content, he will join us, and we hope to have him back soon,” he added.
Despite Hazlewood's absence from the beginning of the season and Yash Dayal being unavailable for the entire season due to personal reasons, Bobat is optimistic that the team possesses strong bowling alternatives that will mitigate any impact.
"We have some outstanding domestic fast bowlers in our lineup. Players like Rasik, Abhinandan, who was with us last year, and the newly signed Mangesh from this auction provide us with excellent options to step in for Hazlewood," he remarked.
RCB will kick off their title defense on March 28, facing Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament's opening match at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Point of View
Their proactive approach in coordinating with Cricket Australia and focusing on domestic talents reflects resilience and strategic planning.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Josh Hazlewood return to RCB?
Josh Hazlewood's return to RCB for IPL 2026 depends on Cricket Australia's approval of his recovery, with no specific date confirmed yet.
What injury did Josh Hazlewood suffer?
Josh Hazlewood sustained a hamstring injury during the Sheffield Shield last November, which has sidelined him since.
Who will replace Hazlewood if he misses matches?
RCB has several strong domestic fast bowlers, including Rasik, Abhinandan, and Mangesh, who can step in as replacements.
When does RCB start their IPL 2026 campaign?
RCB will begin their IPL 2026 title defense on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Is Hazlewood participating in IPL 2026?
As of now, Hazlewood is not participating in IPL 2026 until Cricket Australia confirms his fitness.
