Hazlewood's Impact on RCB's IPL Journey
As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare to face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, all eyes are on their leading pace bowler, Josh Hazlewood. His presence has significantly boosted an already formidable bowling lineup.
Having participated in 11 matches this season, Hazlewood, affectionately nicknamed 'Hoff' by his teammates, has claimed 21 wickets with an impressive average of 15.80 and an economy rate of 8.30, achieving best figures of 4/33. He stands as RCB's leading wicket-taker and ranks fourth overall in the tournament. His knack for taking crucial wickets in high-pressure moments has earned him the moniker 'Hazlegod' among fans on social media.
Bringing a wealth of experience from both franchise and international cricket, Hazlewood embodies the competitive 'Aussie mentality' that prioritizes victory above all.
The seasoned pacer boasts an impressive collection of titles in cricket, including the U19 World Cup, the 50-over World Cup, and the IPL. Notably, he has never faced defeat in a final of a major tournament, making his presence synonymous with success.
Here’s a look at Hazlewood's remarkable performances in tournament finals:
In the 2010 U19 World Cup final, he took 4/30 against Pakistan, helping to dismiss them for just 82 runs while chasing 208, earning him the 'Player of the Match' accolade.
During the 2012 Champions League T20 final, he recorded figures of 3/22 in four overs for the Sydney Sixers, leading to a comfortable victory over the Lions, a South African team.
In the 2014 Sheffield Shield final, he achieved 6/50 against Western Australia, contributing to New South Wales' title win based on their top position in the points table.
In the 2015 World Cup final, he delivered a tight spell of 0/30 in eight overs, playing a crucial role in Australia's victory over New Zealand.
In the 2019-2020 Big Bash League final, he took 3/18 in a 12-over match, helping the Sixers restrict the Melbourne Stars to 97 runs.
While playing for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2021, he claimed 2/29 against Kolkata Knight Riders, contributing to a significant win.
In the T20 World Cup 2021 final, he took 3/16 against New Zealand, ensuring a low total for the Kiwis, which Australia successfully chased down.
Most recently, in the World Cup 2023 final, he took 2/60 against India, aiding Australia in chasing down a target of 240.
Across these seven finals, Hazlewood has amassed 23 wickets, with his best performance being 6/50.
In T20 finals alone, he has taken 11 wickets in four matches, averaging 7.72 with an economy of 5.66, showcasing his prowess in high-stakes games.
Will Hazlewood continue his winning streak and help RCB achieve their ultimate goal?
Squads:
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Squad: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarawal, Rajat Patidar(c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma(w), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Dar Salam, Manoj Bhandage, Tim Seifert, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Blessing Muzarabani, Nuwan Thushara, Mohit Rathee, Swastik Chikara, Abhinandan Singh
Punjab Kings Squad: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis(w), Shreyas Iyer(c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kyle Jamieson, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Praveen Dubey, Xavier Bartlett, Vishnu Vinod, Yash Thakur, Aaron Hardie, Kuldeep Sen, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash
