In what comes as a delightful news for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), ace pacer Josh Hazlewood has joined the team ahead of the playoffs. Hazlewood, who is RCB's highest wicket-taker with 18 wickets this season, hasn't played for the team since April 27 due to a shoulder injury, and returned to Australia after the IPL was paused due to border tensions with Pakistan. During the time away from RCB, the pacer was reportedly practising in Brisbane for the World Test Championship final against South Africa.

Hazlewood's return is a massive boost to RCB, who suffered a 42-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in the last game. The defeat pushed RCB to third place in the points table. RCB would ideally want to finish inside the top two and play Qualifier 1, but they'll need a few results to go their way.

Gujarat Titans, with 18 points, and Punjab Kings, with 17 points, are ahead of RCB (17 points). For RCB to qualify in the top two, they'll need to win the final game against Lucknow Super Giants, which will take their tally to 19 points. They'll then need one of the Gujarat Titans or Punjab Kings to lose their final game. In that case, the loser won't be able to cross the 19-point mark, and RCB will book a berth in Qualifier 1.

Maiden Title In Sight

RCB have qualified for the playoffs, but this is where they have found wanting many times. The team has reached the playoffs nine times and played the final thrice with no luck. However, RCB has played with a lot of conviction in IPL 2025. They probably have their most balanced squad of all time, and the hopes are high that the team will be able to finally get their hands on the maiden trophy. It will all boil down to how well they handle pressure after getting so close to the trophy.