RCB Pull Off Power Move? Injured World Cup Winner Rejoins IPL

May 15, 2025: Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is set to return to India to join Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the remainder of IPL 2025, according to a report . The pacer had earlier left the tournament after it was temporarily suspended due to rising border tensions between India and Pakistan. With the BCCI announcing that IPL 2025 will resume on May 17, Hazlewood’s comeback is seen as a significant boost for RCB.

Also Read: IPL 2025: BCCI to Decide on Gavaskar’s Suggestion to Scrap Cheerleaders, DJs In The Remaining Matches

Hazlewood has played a key role in RCB’s success this season, taking 18 wickets in 10 matches, and helping the team remain strong contenders for a playoffs berth. Though he missed RCB’s last fixture due to a shoulder injury, his return signals both recovery and readiness ahead of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final in June.

“Yes, Josh will travel to India. We are in discussion with the authorities about the exact date of his arrival,” a source close to Hazlewood told

Punjab Kings Also Strengthen Squad With Overseas Returns

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings (PBKS) will also welcome back key overseas players. As per sources cited , Australian duo Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis are expected to join the squad for their May 24 clash against Delhi Capitals in Jaipur.

Additionally, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Mitchell Owen have all confirmed their availability for PBKS and are likely to join the team by May 16. However, uncertainty remains over Aaron Hardie’s participation.

Inglis and Jansen, who are both part of their respective national squads for the WTC Final at Lord’s starting June 11, may have limited availability as the IPL 2025 final is scheduled for June 3.