Josh Hazlewood’s IPL 2026 Participation Uncertain After Injury | Reports

Josh Hazlewood’s participation in IPL 2026 remains uncertain as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru pacer continues recovery from a calf injury.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru face uncertainty over Josh Hazlewood’s availability ahead of IPL 2026. The Australian fast bowler is still waiting for medical clearance after recent injuries. His participation in the opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 remains doubtful.

Hazlewood last played competitive cricket in November. He featured in the Sheffield Shield match between New South Wales and Victoria. After that match, injury ruled him out of the 2025-26 Ashes series. Australia later selected him for the T20 World Cup squad. However, a calf injury struck 5 days before the first match against Ireland. Steve Smith replaced him in the team.

READ ALSO | BCCI Introduces Strict IPL 2026 Practice Guidelines Banning Shared Nets

“He is still under the physio care and his participation in the IPL depends on whether he gets the clearance or not. There is still plenty of time, but it is a wait-and-watch situation for now,” a source told The Hindustan Times.

Pat Cummins Also Awaits Medical Clearance

Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins also awaits medical clearance before IPL 2026. The fast bowler continues recovery from a stress fracture. Cummins has played only 1 match during the past 7 months.

“Same with Pat as well. He, too, is being monitored by the physio,” the source added.

Team management continues to monitor their recovery. Medical staff will decide their IPL participation after final fitness assessments.