Royal Challengers Bengaluru faces uncertainty ahead of IPL 2026 opener as Josh Hazlewood's fitness remains in question Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is preparing for the IPL 2026 season, but the team is grappling with a significant challenge as Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood’s availability remains uncertain. The 34-year-old pacer, a key figure in RCB’s recent success, is dealing with a fitness concern that could impact his participation in the tournament. The team is awaiting clarity on his readiness ahead of the opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28. Hazlewood played a pivotal role in RCB’s 2025 IPL title win, finishing as the team’s leading wicket-taker and delivering a standout performance in the final against Punjab Kings. His ability to generate pace and movement off the pitch was instrumental in key moments during the championship run. However, his absence from the Ashes and the ICC T20 World Cup due to injury has raised concerns about his recovery timeline. Reports suggest Hazlewood has been under close medical supervision, with physiotherapists monitoring his progress. While there is optimism about his potential return, a definitive timeline for his comeback remains unclear. For RCB, which relied heavily on his contributions during powerplay overs, his possible exclusion could weaken the bowling attack. The team’s management is now focused on addressing this gap, with the possibility of relying on younger bowlers or adjusting strategies to compensate for his absence. As the 2026 season approaches, the uncertainty surrounding Hazlewood’s fitness adds pressure to the squad’s preparations. The outcome of this situation will be critical in determining RCB’s prospects for retaining their title.#ipl_2026 #royal_challengers_bengaluru #sunrisers_hyderabad #josh_hazlewood #ashes
