RCB in Trouble: Hazlewood's Fitness Woes Before IPL 2026

Josh Hazlewood’s fitness is giving RCB fans sleepless nights, and for good reason. The Aussie quick is battling hamstring and Achilles tendon issues, and it’s looking like he’ll miss at least the first two matches of IPL 2026. That’s a hefty blow for a side that’s already under pressure to deliver after years of near-misses.

Kris Srikkanth has thrown down the gauntlet, warning that if Hazlewood doesn’t pull his socks up soon, RCB could be staring down the barrel of a disaster. Having been out of the game for nearly five months, he’s not just rusty; he’s practically a statue in the park. With the IPL's intense pace, can RCB afford to wait for him to find his groove?

The stakes are sky-high for RCB, who are desperate to finally bag that elusive trophy. With Hazlewood on the sidelines, their bowling attack looks about as threatening as a pie chucker on a Sunday league. Fans are left holding their breath, hoping for a miracle, while rivals are sharpening their blades in anticipation.

Can RCB adapt and overcome in Hazlewood’s absence? Or will they crumble under the pressure? The clock is ticking, and the IPL is just around the corner!