Huge Boost For RCB! Josh Hazlewood Rejoins Franchise Ahead Of IPL 2025 Playoffs

Josh Hazlewood has rejoined the RCB camp [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

In a significant development, experienced Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has reunited with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remaining IPL 2025 matches. RCB confirmed the development through a post on its official handle on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). 

Josh Hazlewood Arrives At RCB Camp For IPL Playoffs

This morning, the RCB social media team confirmed Hazlewood's re-joining, posting his image with a welcoming caption. Yesterday, the franchise set the social media on fire, hinting at Hazlewood's return through a cryptic post. And, as reported earlier, the veteran pacer has finally made himself available for the crucial playoffs stage. 

Why Was Hazlewood's IPL 2025 Return Delayed?

Despite being a gifted bowler, Josh Hazlewood's career has been marred by frequent injury setbacks of late. The fast bowler missed out on several crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches before a recurring calf strain sidelined him from the Champions Trophy. 

Although he made a spectacular comeback to competitive cricket through the IPL 2025, a minor shoulder injury ruled him out of RCB's group-stage matches against CSK and SRH. 

After the IPL 2025 witnessed a brief suspension due to the recent India-Pakistan border conflict, Hazlewood flew back to his home in Australia. He underwent rehabilitation at Brisbane's Centre of Excellence while fine-tuning his bowling for the IPL 2025 as well as the upcoming World Test Championship final. 

Hazlewood's Comeback A Big Plus Amid Ngidi's Return To South Africa

In Josh Hazlewood's absence, RCB included experienced South African pacer Lungi Ngidi in their playing XI. However, the speedster will leave the RCB camp and join his Proteas teammates to prepare for the WTC final. 

In such a scenario, Hazlewood's comeback is a huge boost for the Royal Challengers, who are eyeing their maiden title this season. 

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