Josh Hazlewood is set to return to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs, providing a timely boost for the side as they gear up for a strong finish to the tournament. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals have suffered a major setback with Mitchell Starc opting out of the remainder of the IPL season.
Hazlewood’s Comeback to Boost RCB in Playoffs
Hazlewood, who had returned to Australia after the IPL was suspended due to geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, is reportedly set to arrive in India by the end of May, just in time for the playoffs.
“Josh is preparing to arrive in India by the end of last week (of May). He will be available for the playoffs,” a source told Hindustan Times.
Though managing a minor shoulder niggle, the Australian speedster is expected to be fit and ready to play. His return comes at a crucial time for RCB, especially after Lungi Ngidi was called back by Cricket South Africa (CSA) for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, ruling him out of the IPL playoffs.
Mitchell Starc Opts Out, Blow for Delhi Capitals
In a contrasting development, Mitchell Starc has informed Delhi Capitals that he will not return for the rest of IPL 2025. The franchise has accepted his decision, dealing a blow to their bowling attack just as the tournament resumes.
“Starc has informed the DC management that he won’t be coming back,” a source confirmed.
Starc becomes the second player from Delhi Capitals to opt out, following Jake Fraser-McGurk. In response, the team signed Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement, though his participation remains uncertain as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has yet to issue a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
Delhi, led by Axar Patel, currently sits in fifth place with three matches left and a realistic chance of qualifying for the playoffs.
What This Means for Both Teams
- RCB will benefit from Hazlewood’s return, especially with their bowling attack missing key names like Ngidi. His presence could be a game-changer in the knockout stages.
- Delhi Capitals, already thin on international pace options, must now reassess their bowling combinations with both Starc and Fraser-McGurk unavailable.
As IPL 2025 enters its final leg, squad depth and timely availability of key players may prove to be the deciding factor in the race to the playoffs.
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