Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood is set to make a return to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) squad, as per a report by Hindustan Times. The 34-year-old was acquired by RCB for a massive fee of Rs 12.5 crore at the IPL 2025 auction and he has certainly lived up to his price tag.
Hazlewood is currently RCB's highest wicket-taker in the ongoing edition of IPL and has picked a total of 18 wickets in 10 matches. The Australian's return to the squad can turn out to be a major boost for RCB, who are set to face-off against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 17 at the M.Chinnaswamy stadium as IPL 2025 resumes after a one-week suspension.
"Yes, Josh will travel to India. We are in discussion with the authorities about the exact date of his arrival," a source close privy to the development told Hindustan Times.
Hazlewood's performance in IPL 2025
The Australian is the most experienced bowler in the current RCB squad and is undoubtedly one of their most important players as well. Hazlewood has bowled exceptionally well especially in the death overs in IPL 2025 and has caused major problems for the opposing batters.
Previously, Hazlewood had left India after IPL was suspended for a week following the rise in border tensions between India and Pakistan. However, following the ceasefire, BCCI announced that the tournament will resume from May 17 and six stadiums were cleared for the remainder of the season. A total of 17 matches are yet to be played in the tournament, including the playoffs and the final. The IPL 2025 final will be played on June 3, however the venue for the same is yet to be confirmed.
Hazlewood had missed RCB's last match that was played against the Chennai Super Kings on May 3 due to a niggle on his shoulder. The 34-year-old is also a part of Australia's squad for the World Test Championship final where the Baggy Greens are set to face-off against South Africa at Lord's on June 11.
Meanwhile, several Australians involved in the tournament, including players, coaching staff and broadcasters, flew back home over the weekend amid the uncertainty regarding the tournament's resumption.