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IPL 2026: 'A Lot Of RCB's Success Will Depend On Hazlewood's Availability,' Opines Du Plessis
Former South African: Former South African player Faf du Plessis has stressed the importance of Josh Hazlewood in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) chances ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, saying the team’s success is closely linked to the availability of the Australian pacer.
Hazlewood, who played a crucial role in RCB's triumphant campaign in the IPL 2025, has not played a match since injuring his hamstring in the Sheffield Shield on November 12 last year. The pacer also missed the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026 due to not attaining full recovery. The 35-year-old is currently managed by Cricket Australia and is set to miss the opening matches of the IPL 2026. His return date is yet to be confirmed.
Du Plessis explained that Hazlewood’s ability to deliver in crucial phases, both with the new ball and at the death, makes him a vital part of the bowling attack, and his absence leaves a significant gap in the side.
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- 06 Feb 2021 04:31
