amidst ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026)Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) keeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma has given a big update on Josh Hazlewood, who is yet to play his first IPL 2026 match for the team.
It was earlier reported that Josh Hazlewood is expected to miss the early part of the tournament as he is yet to regain full fitness. Confirming the reports, the Australian fast bowler missed the opening match of the season when RCB faced Sunrisers Hyderabad. M.Chinnaswamy Stadium In Bengaluru.
When will Josh Hazlewood play for RCB in IPL?
2026?
found out later Josh Hazlewood Nets are performing well in the season. As per the report by RevSportz, the star pacer bowled some innocuous balls on the side net.
“Despite Hazlewood being the center of attention, he was not immediately seen practicing at the center net. You were really surprised: he must be somewhere around. Eventually, within a few minutes, a tall, fast bowler was seen bowling a few balls at the side net.”
The report claimed, “Fluid, long strides, rhythmic approach and tall frame – everything pointed towards Hazlewood, although the experienced fast bowler was working off a few strides. At that moment, a thought flashed: perhaps he was not going to bowl through his full run-up that day.”
“On Saturday, on social media platforms, several claims were made about the possible future of Josh Hazlewood. It is believed that he has very little chance of playing against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). If not against CSK, then his first IPL 2026 match could be against Rajasthan Royals on April 10.
Jitesh Sharma provides update on Australian bowler
Meanwhile, RCB keeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma The star provides a hint on the pacer. Sharma said that only the management can answer properly regarding the current situation of Josh Hazlewood
“The management will give you the right answer on Josh Hazlewood,” Jitesh Sharma said ahead of the RCB vs CSK match, to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on the evening of Sunday, April 5.
There is no special score. Last year, the pitch played differently. It played very well this year- Jitesh.
– RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) 4 April 2026
Sharma further said that the Bengaluru pitch looks different this year and for him it is more batting friendly. Therefore, it was difficult for them to predict any particular total which could be enough for them to win the match.
“There is no special score. Last year, the pitch played differently. This year, it played beautifully,” Jitesh said.
Jitesh also commented on the controversial impact player rule in IPL
He also commented on the controversial influence player rule in the Indian Premier League. Many star players had expressed their concerns about the rule, as it could make teams less dependent on all-rounders.
Using the impact player rule, teams have the freedom to substitute any player in an innings. In most cases, franchises prefer to use regular batsmen or regular bowlers as options. Jitesh Sharma believes this rule is good as an additional Indian player You may get opportunities in the league
Jitesh Sharma said, “We are hungry to win the title. It’s a new season, we have to start again – Jitesh. It’s a good one-effect bye rule. An Indian player is getting an extra chance.”
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