RCB’s bowling shaken before SRH clash: Hazlewood, Dayal, Thushara out

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s much-anticipated IPL 2026 opener faces a rocky start as injuries and off-field issues leave their bowling lineup severely depleted. Josh Hazlewood will miss Saturday’s clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium , despite flying on Thursday, confirmed head coach Andy Flower .

The team’s concerns deepen with Nuwan Thushara ruled out after failing a fitness test in Sri Lanka, while Yash Dayal will be unavailable for the entire season due to personal legal matters. Fans have praised Hazlewood’s loyalty, noting he skipped international commitments to play in the IPL.

RCB is now looking at replacements such as Kwena Maphaka to fill the gap within the team’s purse limits. The burden of leading the team falls on Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar , who will be pivotal in guiding the defending champions through this challenge.

As the opener approaches, all eyes will be on whether RCB’s depth and experience can offset the blow to their bowling attack and keep their 2025-winning momentum alive.