Fri May 30 13:16:45 UTC 2025: **Hazlewood’s IPL Return Boosts RCB and World Test Championship Prep**
Bengaluru, India – Josh Hazlewood’s return from a shoulder injury has provided a significant boost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), helping them secure their first final appearance since 2016 with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings. The Australian pacer’s impressive performance, a haul of 3/21, also serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa in June.
Hazlewood stated that the intensity of the IPL provides an ideal environment to hone his skills for the longer format of the game. His ability to bowl consistent, challenging lengths proved difficult for Punjab Kings batsmen, including key wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Josh Inglis.
Despite missing a portion of the season due to injury, Hazlewood remains RCB’s leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets in 11 games. He emphasized the importance of getting overs in and the positive impact of the recent recovery work on his shoulder.
Hazlewood also highlighted the well-rounded nature of the RCB bowling attack, praising the experience of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the impactful spells of leg-spinner Suyash Sharma. The team effectively exploited the seam movement and inconsistent bounce of the pitch, contributing to their comprehensive win.
First Piper 