Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025 (Source: AP Photos)
Josh Hazlewood has been the most successful bowler for RCB in IPL 2025 so far, but he has not been selected in the playing XI for the big game against CSK. In Josh Hazlewood's place, Lungi Ngidi has been given a chance while Phil Salt continues to miss out.
Josh Hazlewood's Tryst With Injuries Continue
The reason for Josh Hazlewood's absence is a shoulder niggle, as mentioned by Harsha Bhogle during his commentary stint. The Australian has been in superb form in IPL 2025, and has picked 18 wickets in 10 matches. Thus, RCB are likely to miss his services on their home ground that has provided some help for the seamers this season.
Injuries have been a big part of Josh Hazlewood's career so far. He did not participate in Champions Trophy before the IPL due to a hip injury. RCB fans will be hoping that his current niggle does not worsen and become a significant problem for them, while Lungi Ngidi would be hoping to grab the opportunity with both hands.
RCB have 14 points in their kitty already, and thus they can afford to rest Josh Hazlewood against a team like CSK that is already out of the tournament. However, these two teams are quite popular and fans of both the teams would be hoping that their team comes out on top.
The pressure will be on the likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal to deliver in Hazlewood's absence. CSK though would be hoping to cash on, and avenge the loss they suffered at the Chinnaswamy in the last season.
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