New Delhi. Before the start of IPL 2026, the current champion (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) may face a big shock. The team’s star Australian fast bowler (Josh Hazlewood) will not be able to play in the initial matches. According to reports, he is not fully fit yet and may miss the first two matches, which is expected to affect the team’s bowling.

Fear of being left out of initial matches

According to the information, Josh Hazlewood will not be available till the first week of IPL 2026. In such a situation, he will not be able to play in the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 and then against Chennai Super Kings. Both these matches are to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where the role of fast bowlers is very important.

Hazlewood is struggling with injury

Josh Hazlewood has been troubled by injury for some time. He had earlier suffered a hamstring injury and during recovery, an Achilles problem also came to light. For this reason, he remained out of big tournaments like Ashes series and T20 World Cup 2026. The situation regarding his complete fitness is not clear yet.

Why is Hazlewood important for RCB?

Last season, Josh Hazlewood played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title win. He achieved the status of the most successful bowler of the team by taking 22 wickets at an average of 17.54 in the 2025 season. His precise line-length and experience are considered the backbone of RCB’s bowling attack.

Challenge will increase in the initial matches

In the absence of Hazlewood, the challenge for RCB may increase in the initial matches. On one hand, Sunrisers Hyderabad will have aggressive batsmen, while on the other hand, MS Dhoni’s team will compete with an experienced and balanced team like Chennai Super Kings. In such a situation, the team may have to change its bowling combination.

What will be the return?

At present, the eyes of RCB management and fans are fixed on the fitness of Josh Hazlewood. If he returns fit soon, the team can get a big relief. But his absence in the initial matches is definitely a matter of concern for RCB.