In a surprising move, Josh Hazlewood has been excluded from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) playing XI for their crucial IPL 2025 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Josh Hazlewood’s Absence Sparks Panic Among RCB Fans
Josh Hazlewood’s exclusion from the playing XI has led to widespread speculation among fans. The Australian bowler, who has taken 18 wickets in just 10 matches and is second on the Purple Cap list, was not part of the pre-match warm-ups, fueling further concern. Hazlewood was seen conversing with CSK pacer Nathan Ellis, which only added to the anxiety surrounding his absence.
At the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar did not address Hazlewood’s absence, merely confirming the change in the playing XI. His replacement, Lungi Ngidi, will have to step up in Hazlewood’s absence and deliver a strong performance against a formidable CSK side.
RCB’s Strong Start Despite Josh Hazlewood’s Absence
Despite the absence of Hazlewood, RCB managed to secure a thrilling two-run win over CSK in the ongoing IPL 2025 match. The match was a nail-biter, with Yash Dayal holding his nerve in the final over to secure the win for RCB. The team’s confidence remains high, and Patidar expressed hope that Hazlewood will return for their next match. “We are hopeful to have Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt back for the next game,” said RCB assistant coach Dinesh Karthik.
Josh Hazlewood’s Importance to RCB in IPL 2025
Josh Hazlewood has been one of RCB’s standout performers this season, and his absence raised many questions. Known for his lethal pace and accuracy, Hazlewood has been a key player for RCB in the 2025 IPL. His ability to break partnerships and control the middle overs has been invaluable to the team’s success. If Hazlewood’s absence is due to a minor injury, it will be a relief for fans, but with the World Test Championship final approaching, his recovery will be closely monitored. You can read more about Hazlewood’s performances on [RCB’s official website](https://www.royalchallengers.com).
What This Means for RCB and IPL 2025
RCB are currently sitting third in the points table, with 14 points from 10 matches. A win against CSK would propel them to the top of the standings. RCB will need all hands on deck as they head into the final stretch of the IPL 2025 season. With Hazlewood’s return expected soon, RCB fans are optimistic that the team can maintain their strong position in the tournament. Check out [IPL 2025 match predictions and insights](https://www.cricbuzz.com) for more updates.
Check out our latest IPL 2025 updates for more news on RCB and other teams
Looking Ahead: Hazlewood’s Return to Action
It is expected that Hazlewood will be back in the RCB lineup soon, possibly for their next match. His presence is crucial, not just for RCB, but also for Australia, with the World Test Championship final on the horizon. For now, the team will need to rely on other key players like Virat Kohli, who continues to lead by example, and others in the bowling attack to fill Hazlewood’s void.
As RCB continue their IPL 2025 journey, the team and their supporters remain hopeful that Hazlewood’s absence is temporary, and that he will be back to spearhead the attack soon.
In a surprising move, Josh Hazlewood has been excluded from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) playing XI for their crucial IPL 2025 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Aussie Tim David, usually RCB’s big-hitting finisher, could only watch the big Guyanase power man from the other end in amazement as Khaleel Ahmed’s 19th over went for 33, Shepherd bludgeoning four sixes and two fours.
The pair enjoyed an unbroken partnership of 56 at the death, and David had to laugh – he scored just two of them.
Kohli’s fourth successive half-century earned him the orange cap as the league’s top scorer with a tally of 505 for the season.