Josh Hazlewood Out of IPL 2025? RCB can replace Australian with These Four Overseas Pacers

Australia has been dealt a major blow ahead of the second Test against India in Adelaide, as star pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out due to a low-grade side strain.

Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the news, stating that while Hazlewood will miss this pivotal day-night Test, he will remain with the squad in Adelaide to continue preparations for the remainder of the five-match series. The injury is a significant setback for Australia, as Hazlewood has been a vital component of their bowling lineup.

Although Hazlewood's injury is deemed short-term, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be wary of the news. The Australian was their most expensive buy in the IPL 2025 mega auction for Rs 12.5 crore, and RCB won't be stoked with the latest news from Australia.

The Australian is an injury-prone bowler and RCB may have to be prepared for that during the course of the IPL. With a massive investment in Hazlewood, they can't afford to miss the ace bowler due to an injury. And as a preemptive thought, here are four bowlers RCB can shortlist as a potential replacement for Josh Hazlewood.

Four Possible Replacements for Hazlewood in IPL 2025 for RCB

Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh): Known for his slower balls and death-over expertise, Mustafizur could be a reliable option for RCB. Mustafizur not finding a team in the IPL was a surprise, and the Bangladeshi can be a decent addition for RCB. With a significant international and IPL experience, Mustafizur will bring a lot of quality to RCB bowling if they miss Hazlewood.

Naveen ul Haq (Afghanistan): Naveen ul Haq had a decent season with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2024 and will be a valuable addition to the RCB team. Given the history he has with RCB and Virat Kohli, that would be an interesting addition. The Afghan was excellent for his nation in the T20 World Cup as well, a tournament where Afghanistan reached the semifinals.

Alzarri Joseph (West Indies): With raw pace and bounce, West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph is capable of taking wickets in crucial moments, especially on flat IPL pitches. RCB can switch their eyes on the West Indies pacer but they may not exercise the option.

Gus Atkinson (England): Gus Atkinson has impressed with his pace and accuracy in white-ball cricket, and his inclusion could bring variety to the RCB pace attack. The England pacer is a top player for any team to have and RCB can keep Atkinson in their mind as a replacement.