Sports Desk, New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been dealt a worrying update ahead of their opening clash in IPL 2026. While star pacer Josh Hazlewood has already arrived in India, uncertainty over his fitness has left the team management on edge.
Fitness Concerns Before Season Opener
RCB are scheduled to take on Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, Hazlewood’s availability for the match remains unclear. The Australian quick is reportedly still recovering from recurring hamstring and Achilles issues, raising doubts about his match readiness.
Cricket Australia’s Cautious Approach
A major factor complicating the situation is Cricket Australia’s strict stance on player fitness. With an important Test season ahead, the board is unwilling to take any risks with one of their key fast bowlers. Unless CA’s medical team gives a clear green signal, Hazlewood is likely to stay out of action, at least in the early stages of the tournament.
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More Trouble for RCB’s Bowling Unit
The concerns don’t end with Hazlewood. Indian seamer Yash Dayal has already been ruled out of the entire tournament due to legal complications, further weakening RCB’s pace attack.
Pressure on Backup Options
With two key bowlers unavailable, the responsibility now shifts to backup players like New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy. On the typically batting-friendly Chinnaswamy pitch, Duffy and the rest of the bowling unit will need to step up quickly if RCB are to start their campaign on a strong note.
RCB now head into the season opener with more questions than answers, especially regarding their bowling combination.