The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) picked up a massive addition to the team heading into the critical final stage of IPL 2025 in the shape of Josh Hazlewood, who is set to return to the squad following injury concerns and an international schedule. Hazlewood had missed a significant portion of the tournament due to a shoulder injury and was undergoing rehabilitation back in Australia. His timely recovery comes as a welcome relief for RCB, who are aiming to clinch their first-ever IPL title.

Hazlewood was in excellent form before his injury, having taken 18 wickets in 10 matches at an impressive average of 17.28. He was among the top wicket-takers in the tournament, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. With his return, RCB’s bowling unit gets a crucial reinforcement, especially with Lungi Ngidi set to leave for national duty ahead of the World Test Championship final.

The Bangalore-based franchise has already qualified for the playoffs with 17 points in the group stage. The inclusion of Hazlewood not only adds firepower to their pace attack but also brings in valuable experience during high-stakes matches. The franchise made a very laidback announcement via social media in a coded way, but RCB fans, some of the most rabid fans on social media, found an image of the cricket kit and took a clear hint since it was wrapped in Cricket Australia's branding all over the bags. RCB fans, who have long waited for silverware, have every reason to be optimistic with this latest development. 

Lost and Found 🤔 pic.twitter.com/jthyWfoC8o

— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) May 24, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 66: Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals Full Match Highlights

Tim Seifert Joins RCB Squad in Front of LSG Clash

In addition to the availability of Josh Hazlewood, Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed that Tim Seifert of New Zealand is also joining their squad. Seifert has been signed in place of Josh Bethell, who is from England, on a temporary replacement contract, which has now been altered for the rest of the IPL and made him available for their match on Monday against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). We do not know if he will be a part of the playing XI since Hazlewood will probably be one of the four overseas players chosen for LSG.

Hazlewood's availability is a positive for RCB, but the team management will have to manage the combined workload on Hazlewood. He is also named in Australia's squad for the World Test Championship 2025 Final, which is only a week after the IPL concludes against South Africa after they meet at Lord's in London. RCB will want to make the right decision ahead of this important match.