Josh Hazlewood Shines in IPL 2025 Ahead of WTC Final

Hazlewood's Stellar Performance Boosts RCB

Josh Hazlewood has made a remarkable return in IPL 2025, showcasing his skills after a brief break. His comeback has significantly strengthened the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as they approach the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa, scheduled for June 11 at Lord's. The IPL has served as an excellent platform for Hazlewood to regain his form.

While Hazlewood has excelled in Test cricket, he has also established himself as a formidable T20 bowler in recent years. During a match in Mullanpur on Thursday night, he dismantled the Punjab Kings' batting order, securing three vital wickets.

Hazlewood has been a key player in RCB's bowling attack, having participated in just 11 matches yet leading the team with 21 wickets. Following RCB's impressive victory over Punjab Kings, he discussed the importance of playing in the IPL as the WTC final approaches.

He stated, "I need to be bowling, no matter where I am in the world, to prepare for that game (WTC final). There’s no better place than being in the middle. While I need to put in more training hours to prepare for a Test, the IPL provides the right intensity for that preparation," after achieving an impressive bowling figure of 3/21.

Hazlewood added, "I don’t bowl significantly differently in Test matches compared to tonight. I was pleased with my performance; the wicket was favorable, allowing me to avoid bowling fast yorkers. It feels great to be back."