Subhechcha Ganguly 
In a much-needed boost for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Australian pace ace Josh Hazlewood is set to return to the squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs. Sources close to the development confirmed to Hindustan Times that Hazlewood is preparing to arrive in India by the end of May and will be available for the high-stakes knockout matches.
“Josh is preparing to arrive in India by the end of last week (of May). He will be available for the franchise for the playoffs,” a source informed Hindustan Times, putting to rest speculation about his potential absence.
The right-arm fast bowler, who has been a standout performer for RCB this season, currently sits third on the IPL 2025 wicket-takers list with 18 wickets in just 10 matches. Hazlewood had earlier missed the clash against Chennai Super Kings due to a shoulder niggle and later returned to Australia when the tournament was temporarily suspended following rising tensions at the India-Pakistan border.
After the ceasefire declaration and the announcement of IPL’s resumption, there were doubts over Hazlewood’s return, especially amid reports suggesting his reluctance to travel back. However, it has now been confirmed that the Australian quick has initiated talks with the RCB management and is ready to don the red and gold once again.
His return is particularly crucial for RCB, as South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will be unavailable for the playoffs after Cricket South Africa (CSA) decided to recall its players by May 26 for preparations ahead of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
With Hazlewood’s return, RCB — led by Rajat Patidar — will hope to strengthen their bowling attack as they eye their maiden IPL title. Fans and the franchise alike will be counting on the Aussie’s experience and lethal form to guide them through the knockout stage.
