The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been having a great season before the suspension of the Indian Premier League due to the border tensions. One of the key players for the Men in Red is Aussie star pacer , who was the highest wicket-taker for the franchise and has been giving incredible performances.
However, the recent reports have suggested that it might be unlikely given the situation between the two nations. It seems to be tougher for Hazlewood who had a niggle in his shoulder during the season. This was the reason the 34-year-old missed the last game against the , and his availability in the game against LSG was looking doubtful as well.
The border tensions have already made it tough for the foreign players to make a return in this tournament, and with Hazlewood facing an injury, his return after the potential resumption of the tournament will be even tougher this season. It is also been mentioned that some foreign players have already taken flights back home after the one-week suspension. This would be a huge setback for the Bengaluru franchise, who might lose one of their in-form players at a crucial stage in the global league.
Hazlewood WTC chances
This news has led to questions being asked about Hazlewood’s participation in the WTC final, which will be played against South Africa at Lord’s. Hazlewood had already missed out on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to a calf strain, which ruled him out for the rest of the series, and he had to go through a long tenure in rehab to get back to fitness to play the tournament.
However, the recent reports from ESPNCricinfo, Cricket Australia (CA) have made a statement saying that they aren’t concerned about Hazlewood’s injury and is expected to be picked in the Test match, and he will be joining the conditioning camps which will begin from the first week of June.
