Hazlewood Returns as RCB Face LSG in Decider

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have welcomed back star pacer Josh Hazlewood, who has rejoined the squad in Lucknow after recovering from a shoulder injury and a tournament pause due to cross-border tensions. Hazlewood, the team's leading wicket-taker with 18 wickets in 10 matches, is expected to play a key role in RCB's crucial final league match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), who are no longer in playoff contention. RCB, currently third on the points table, must win this match to secure a top-two finish and gain two chances to reach the IPL 2025 final. The squad has also been strengthened by the return of other key players, including Tim David. While RCB struggled during Hazlewood's absence, the coaching staff remain confident in the team's depth. Hazlewood is also set to join Australia for the World Test Championship final after the IPL.