In a blow to both Australian cricket and his IPL team, Josh Hazlewood’s injury could put his participation in IPL 2025 in serious jeopardy. This latest setback not only raises questions about his availability for the remainder of the Test series but also leaves Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who had secured him for a hefty INR 12.5 crores, scrambling for a potential RCB replacement for Josh Hazlewood. With his fitness in doubt, the big question is about the attendence of Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025, or if RCB will need to adjust their plans for the season.

What Led to Josh Hazlewood’s Injury？

Australia faced a major setback early on Day 4 of the third Test against India at the Gabba when Josh Hazlewood was forced off the field with a calf injury. After bowling just one over, Hazlewood complained of “calf awareness,” prompting immediate discussions with the team’s medical staff. He was soon sent for scans, which revealed a strain in his right calf, ruling him out for the remainder of the match. Hazlewood had previously missed the Adelaide Test due to a side injury but appeared fit and fine during the rain-affected third day of the series, even taking the crucial wicket of Virat Kohli. However, when he returned to bowl on Day 4, his first delivery was noticeably off, clocking in at just 128 kph, signaling that something was wrong. With Josh Hazlewood’s injury now sidelining him, there are growing concerns over his availability for Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025. If his recovery continues to be a challenge, RCB may soon need to look for an RCB replacement for Josh Hazlewood ahead of the tournament.

RCB Replacement for Josh Hazlewood

With Josh Hazlewood’s injury, RCB face a potential challenge ahead of IPL 2025. Hazlewood, their most expensive buy at ₹12.5 crore, was expected to lead the bowling attack, but his injury-prone nature raises concerns. If Hazlewood is unavailable or pulled from the tournament for international duties, RCB will have limited options, relying mainly on Bhuvneshwar Kumar as their only experienced pacer. As a result, they must start looking at a potential RCB replacement for Josh Hazlewood. Since they’ve already filled their overseas player quota, they will likely turn to unsold Indian pacers as a possible solution. Whether it’s for injury or international commitments, RCB must be prepared for the possibility of missing Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025 and act fast to secure a capable replacement.

Who Will Replace Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025？

Shivam Mavi

If Josh Hazlewood is unavailable for IPL 2025, RCB could consider adding Shivam Mavi to their squad. The 25-year-old right-arm pacer has the ability to bowl at a decent pace and could form a strong opening partnership with Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Mavi has shown glimpses of his potential in the IPL, with 20 wickets in 17 matches between 2020 and 2021, and his recent international debut for India highlighted his skills. Additionally, Mavi’s ability with the bat adds depth to RCB’s lower order, making him a valuable all-round option.

Vidhwath Kaverappa

Vidhwath Kaverappa, the talented Karnataka seamer, could be a great addition to RCB’s bowling attack in IPL 2025. Known for his accuracy with both the new ball and in the death overs, Kaverappa has the skills to trouble any batter. Being a local player, he also offers RCB the flexibility to maintain their overseas player quota, making him a strong contender as Hazlewood’s potential replacement.

Nuwan Thusara

Nuwan Thusara could bring a unique edge to RCB’s bowling attack in IPL 2025 with his unorthodox action and deadly yorkers. Known for his slingy delivery and variations, he’s tough to read, especially in the death overs. Thusara’s ability to take wickets in the powerplay and at the death could complement RCB’s pace attack, adding a different dimension to their strategy. While his IPL inexperience may be a concern, his success in other franchise leagues suggests he could be a game-changer for RCB.

RCB’s Next Step for IPL 2025

With Josh Hazlewood’s injury potentially sidelining him in IPL 2025, RCB will need to find a strong RCB replacement for Josh Hazlewood. Options like Shivam Mavi, Vidhwath Kaverappa, and Nuwan Thusara could be considered, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Mavi offers pace and death-bowling experience, while Kaverappa’s accuracy with the new ball could complement RCB’s attack. Thusara’s unorthodox style and knack for taking wickets at key moments also make him a viable choice. While RCB might miss Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2025, these players could step up and help fill the void created by Josh Hazlewood’s injury.