Josh Hazlewood’s IPL 2025 Return in Doubt as Cricket Australia Prioritizes WTC Final

Josh Hazlewood’s IPL 2025 campaign is hanging in the balance, with the Australian quick nursing a shoulder issue that could see him miss the business end of the tournament — especially with the World Test Championship (WTC) final looming large.

Hazlewood has been a key figure for Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season, leading their pace attack with 18 wickets and some game-changing spells. But just before the IPL was paused, he sat out RCB’s clash against Chennai Super Kings with what was initially described as an injury niggle. Now, reports from ESPNcricinfo suggest that it’s a shoulder problem, on top of the calf and side injuries he’s already been managing since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While his fitness is being monitored closely, Cricket Australia is unlikely to take any risks. The WTC final against South Africa at Lord’s on June 11 is a top priority, and CA is expected to keep Hazlewood on ice if there’s any doubt about his readiness. That means even if the IPL resumes later in May, RCB might have to plan without their premier fast bowler. 

Hazlewood’s possible absence is a blow for Bengaluru, who relied heavily on his consistency with the ball this season. It’s not just Hazlewood whose IPL return is in doubt. Mitchell Starc, who was part of the Delhi Capitals squad, has already flown back to Sydney with his wife, Australia women’s captain Alyssa Healy. Starc didn’t speak to reporters at the airport, but his manager told Nine News that he “might not return to the IPL if the tournament resumes.” 

This growing uncertainty is being felt across several franchises, especially with player availability turning into a bit of a juggling act. According to Indian media, the IPL could now extend until May 30 — five days beyond the originally scheduled final. That potential extension, combined with upcoming international commitments and the ongoing tension in the region, has put overseas boards in a tricky position. 

Franchise officials are still waiting for clarity. There are 13 league matches left, including the unfinished PBKS vs DC clash in Dharamsala, along with the usual four playoff games. The IPL governing body is expected to announce a revised schedule soon, but until then, teams like RCB and DC are left in limbo over whether their star overseas players will be back. 

With the WTC final and other tours fast approaching, it’s becoming increasingly clear that boards like Cricket Australia might prioritize national duty over franchise cricket in the coming weeks. That leaves the IPL 2025 hanging by a thread — and fans hoping that the final stretch of the tournament doesn’t miss too many big names. 

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