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Josh Hazlewood for RCB - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, RCB head coach Andy Flower has broken his silence on Josh Hazlewood's availability for IPL 2026 opener vs SRH. Notably, the defending champions will kickstart the 19th edition cash-studded league when they take on SRH on March 28 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
On the eve of IPL 2026 opening game, Andy Flower spoke to the press, where he confirmed that Josh Hazlewood won't play against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The RCB head coach stated that the right-arm seamer won't be available for tomorrow's game and the franchise is monitoring his fitness.
Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out Of SRH Clash
"Josh Hazlewood won't be ready for tomorrow. But we are monitoring his fitness," remarked Andy Flower to the press.
For the unversed, Hazlewood has not played a solitary game since Sheffield Shield Trophy in October 2025. The RCB seamer suffered an hamstring injury and also Achilles discomfort, making him miss the Ashes and T20 World Cup 2026.
At present, Hazlewood has joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru camp in Bengaluru, but is not match ready as confirmed by Andy Flower.
When Will Josh Hazlewood Return To Action For RCB In IPL 2026?
In the press meet, Andy Flower didn't reveal the exact timeline of Hazlewood's absence but it is expected that the right-arm seamer will miss a couple of games. After SRH, the defending champions will have a week's break and then face Chennai Super Kings on April 5.
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The Royals will try their best to get Josh Hazlewood match-ready by Sunday, April 5, but it seems difficult. Nonetheless, the 35-year-old won't be rushed because the Rajat Patidar-led side cannot afford to lose their star bowler for a long period with a possible relapse.
Why Will RCB Miss Josh Hazlewood For Starting Of IPL 2026?
Josh Hazlewood's absence is a big blow for RCB because the Australia seamer was their best and most reliant bowler in the title-winning season. Notably, the right-arm seamer took 22 wickets in 12 innings.
Even before start of IPL 2025, Hazlewood had injury concerns and there were doubts over his fitness. Nonetheless, he silenced his critics with a brilliant performance. Therefore, RCB want the right-arm seamer to be fit in time and return as soon as possible to the playing XI.
Andy Flower Opens Up On RCB's Preparations For IPL 2026
During the presser, RCB's title-winning coach Andy Flower opened up on the side's preparations for the upcoming season. He stated that the team is looking forward to IPL 2026.
"It was a hugely proud moment. So to have the result we had last year, it was a special, emotional moment. By saying that this is 2026. We are looking forward to this season, it is time to look forward to another challenge," added Andy Flower.
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