Hazlewood Back For RCB Playoffs, Starc Passes on IPL Resumption
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans rejoice! Aussie speedster Josh Hazlewood is making his way back to the team just in time for the IPL 2025 playoffs.
Sources confirmed to Hindustan Times that Hazlewood, who’s been a standout performer for RCB this season, is expected to arrive in India by the end of next week. He’s been nursing a shoulder niggle, but should be fit to bowl in the crucial playoffs.
RCB Gets a Boost, But Lungi Ngidi Departs
Hazlewood’s return is a huge boost for RCB, especially since South African pacer Lungi Ngidi will be unavailable for the playoffs. Cricket South Africa has called back their players for the upcoming World Test Championship final.
Starc Skips Out on IPL Resumption
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals received some disheartening news. Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has decided not to return to the IPL for the remainder of the season. This follows the earlier decision of Australian batsman Jake Fraser-McGurk to opt out.
Starc’s Decision Explained
According to sources, Starc communicated his decision to the DC management and they have accepted it.
Du Plessis and Stubbs Back with DC
On a brighter note for Delhi Capitals, vice-captain Faf du Plessis and teammate Tristan Stubbs have rejoined the squad ahead of the IPL resumption.
However, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc and South African all-rounder Donovan Ferreira remain unavailable.
IPL 2025 Resumption
The IPL 2025 is set to resume on May 17th. Delhi Capitals will face Gujarat Titans in their next fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, May 18th.
