IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood likely to return for CSK clash, reports suggest

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru team will get an essential advantage before their upcoming match against the Chennai Super Kings because Josh Hazlewood is nearing his return from injury. The match between Bengaluru and Chennai creates an exciting contest because both teams need their best fast bowler to return.

The Australian fast bowler who has been healing from an Achilles tendon injury became the main focus during RCB's last practice session at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Fans had come to see Virat Kohli practice in the nets but the tall pacer became the main attraction because of his development.

Latest update on Josh Hazlewood’s availability ahead of CSK match

The seasoned speedster began his run-up from the side nets with a brief run-up because he wanted to decrease his speed before he started to run faster. He later progressed to the main pitch where he established his complete run-up for almost an hour of bowling.

The session included a mix of fuller deliveries, good-length balls, and eventually his trademark hard-length short balls — a strong indicator that he is nearing match fitness. The franchise management currently observes his health status because they will decide his availability based on his final fitness test results.

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How his return could boost his team’s bowling attack

Bengaluru's bowling performance needs improvements which Hazlewood can provide because his absence has made their pace attack more vulnerable. The experienced fast bowler brings balance to the bowling team through his disciplined pitching style which produces bounce and enables him to achieve wicket dismissals during both powerplay and death power times.

Ruturaj Gaikwad and the Chennai batting lineup will face difficulties with his ability to deliver consistent hard length deliveries. The bowling group would experience less pressure because his return would create opportunities for better strategic pitching deployment. The upcoming match will not include him but the upcoming game will see his return because net practice reports show that he will return to play soon.

Fans react to positive fitness update before IPL 2026 clash

The fans show excitement because the training visuals which display positive outcomes. Supporters have taken to social media expressing optimism about the pacer’s return, viewing it as a potential game-changer.