As the high-voltage clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) approaches today, April 5, 2026, the biggest question on every fan's mind is the fitness of Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood.
While Hazlewood has been seen bowling to Virat Kohli in the nets at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, reports suggest he is still in the final stages of recovery from hamstring and Achilles injuries. He was officially ruled out of RCB's opening matches, and while he is nearing match fitness, the team management is expected to exercise caution. It is likely he will sit out today’s game to ensure he is 100% ready for the rest of the season.
The Hazlewood Factor: Risk vs. Reward
Josh Hazlewood was the backbone of RCB’s title-winning campaign in 2025, picking up 22 wickets. His absence has been felt, though Jacob Duffy filled the void admirably in the season opener against SRH.
The Latest Training Reports
Hazlewood has been active at the Chinnaswamy, participating in warm-ups and bowling in the side nets. His sessions with Virat Kohli have fueled rumors of a surprise inclusion. However, having missed the 2025-26 Ashes and the recent T20 World Cup, RCB is wary of rushing him back too soon. The medical staff is reportedly looking at the April 10 match against Rajasthan Royals as a more realistic return date.
Strategic Impact on RCB vs CSK
Without Hazlewood’s pinpoint accuracy in the powerplay, RCB will rely on the swing of Jacob Duffy and the middle-overs control of Romario Shepherd. On a flat Chinnaswamy track, the lack of an experienced international spearhead could be a vulnerability that CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra will look to exploit.
CSK’s Opportunity
Chennai is currently at the bottom of the table after two losses. For them, a Hazlewood-less RCB bowling attack is a golden opportunity to find their rhythm. If the "Yellow Army" can survive the initial burst from the local pacers, their middle order—led by Shivam Dube—is well-equipped to dominate the smaller boundaries of Bengaluru.