Josh Hazlewood has officially rejoined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season, bringing a much-needed boost to the team’s bowling attack. The Australian pacer’s return had been uncertain earlier this month after the tournament was temporarily paused due to escalating air raid tensions between India and Pakistan.

Now fully fit following a shoulder injury, Hazlewood has linked up with the RCB squad ahead of their crucial final league match against the Rishabh Pant-led Lucknow Super Giants, scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.

The 34-year-old fast bowler spent the IPL’s mid-season break undergoing rehabilitation in Brisbane. ESPNcricinfo reported that Hazlewood has completed his recovery and is ready to resume training. His return comes at a vital time for RCB, who are still in the hunt for a top-two playoff finish.

“Good to be back! Hope to get the ball rolling again and start practice tomorrow,” Hazlewood said in a video posted on RCB’s official social media handles.

Hazlewood has been one of RCB’s top performers this season, leading the wicket-taking charts for the team with 18 wickets in 10 matches. He boasts an economy rate of 8.44 and has already registered a four-wicket haul.

He missed RCB’s last match, against the Chennai Super Kings on May 3 at Chepauk, due to his shoulder issue. During his absence, RCB’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, confirmed that Hazlewood was undergoing a closely monitored rehab program in Australia.

After wrapping up his IPL commitments, Hazlewood will turn his focus to national duty, as he’s expected to be part of Australia’s squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa, set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s.

As for RCB, they’ll be aiming to bounce back from a 42-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad. To keep their hopes alive for a top-two finish, Rajat Patidar’s men must secure a win in their final league game against Lucknow.