Hazlewood Primed to Return to RCB Squad for IPL Playoffs: Reports
The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set to receive a significant boost ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs as Josh Hazlewood is reportedly primed to rejoin the squad. The Australian pace bowler has been undergoing rehab for a shoulder niggle in Brisbane and is expected to complete his rehabilitation on time, allowing him to return to the team for the playoffs.
According to ESPN Cricinfo, Hazlewood’s return will be a massive boost for RCB’s title hopes. With 18 wickets at an impressive average of 17.27 in 10 matches, the 30-year-old has been one of the standout performers for the team this season. His presence will undoubtedly strengthen RCB’s bowling unit, which has been one of the most inconsistent aspects of their game this year.
RCB have already secured a spot in the playoffs and will be looking to finish in the top two to gain two chances at reaching the final. With Hazlewood set to return, the team will be hoping that his inclusion will provide the spark they need to push for the top spot.
Hazlewood’s absence has been keenly felt by RCB in recent weeks, particularly in the absence of other key bowlers such as Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Siraj. The team has struggled to find consistency in their bowling, which has led to a few close losses in recent matches.
However, with Hazlewood’s return, RCB will be able to bolster their bowling attack and provide a more balanced look to their lineup. Hazlewood’s ability to swing the ball and take wickets at crucial stages of the game will be a huge asset for RCB, particularly in the playoffs where every run and wicket counts.
RCB’s batting unit has been one of the most prolific in the tournament, with the likes of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Devdutt Padikkal all having impressive seasons. However, the team’s bowling has been a concern, and Hazlewood’s return will provide a welcome boost to their attack.
In Hazlewood’s absence, RCB have relied heavily on the likes of Navdeep Saini and Kane Richardson to lead the attack. While both bowlers have done a decent job, they have struggled to provide the same level of consistency and wicket-taking ability as Hazlewood.
Hazlewood’s return will also provide a welcome boost to RCB’s leadership group, which has been led by Virat Kohli for most of the season. Kohli has been impressive in his captaincy, but the team has often lacked a bit of spark and momentum in their games. With Hazlewood back in the fold, RCB will be hoping that his presence will provide the team with a much-needed injection of energy and enthusiasm.
In conclusion, Josh Hazlewood’s return to the RCB squad for the IPL playoffs is a massive boost for the team. With 18 wickets at an impressive average of 17.27 in 10 matches, Hazlewood has been one of the standout performers for RCB this season. His presence will undoubtedly strengthen RCB’s bowling unit and provide a much-needed boost to their title hopes. With Hazlewood back in the fold, RCB will be looking to push for the top spot in the playoffs and go all the way to the final.
