Follow UsJosh Hazlewood, who left India after the Operation Sindoor-induced break and then stayed back in Brisbane to complete his rehabilitation for a shoulder niggle, will reportedly join RCB for the playoffs.
RCB, who are guaranteed a playoff spot, will aim to finish in the top two to get two cracks at the final. Their bid for the title will be boosted by the presence of the Aussie seamer who has had a stellar run in the ongoing IPL season with 18 wickets at 17.27 from 10 matches.
ESPNCricinfo reported that while the remaining Australian team will leave for the UK on May 29 for the World Test Championship Final, starting June 11, Hazlewood and Josh Inglis (Punjab Kings) will join a little late after completing their IPL formalities.
This will be Hazlewood’s first-ever WTC final after missing out on the 2023 final against India due to an Achilles and side injuries. Hazlewood also missed two Test matches against India last December and subsequently, the Champions Trophy and Sri Lanka tour. With less than a week to prepare for the final, he will be aiming to maximise every opportunity.
Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins and opener Travis Head will depart the Indian shores on May 25, whereas Mitchell Starc decided not to return to the tournament with Delhi Capitals after leaving home early.