Josh Hazlewood And Pat Cummins Set To Miss Opening IPL 2026 Matches
The upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to begin on March 28, but two franchises could start their campaigns without their star Australian pacers. Reports indicate that Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are unlikely to feature in the early matches of the tournament due to ongoing injury concerns.
Hazlewood, who plays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), is still recovering after an injury-affected home season in Australia. The fast bowler had already missed the entire Ashes series and continues to undergo rehabilitation, making his participation in the opening fixtures uncertain.
Rehabilitation Delays Return Of Key Players
Sources close to the developments revealed that both Hazlewood and Cummins are yet to receive full medical clearance from Cricket Australia. As a result, the duo is expected to miss the initial games of the IPL while completing their rehabilitation programs.
Hazlewood is reportedly likely to be unavailable for at least the first couple of matches for RCB. The experienced right-arm pacer has been a crucial member of the franchise’s bowling attack and played an important role in the team’s recent successes.
SRH Also Face Leadership Challenge
Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) could also feel the impact of Cummins’ absence. The Australian captain, who leads the SRH side, has been managing a recurring back issue and has been carefully monitored by medical staff.
If Cummins fails to regain full fitness in time, SRH may have to rely on alternative leadership options for their opening fixtures. His absence would not only affect the bowling unit but also the team’s on-field strategy.
Early Setback For Two IPL Contenders
The absence of two world-class fast bowlers could pose early challenges for both franchises as they prepare for the new IPL season. With Hazlewood providing control and discipline in RCB’s bowling attack and Cummins leading SRH both tactically and with the ball, their temporary absence may force teams to adjust their combinations in the initial phase of the tournament.
However, both franchises remain hopeful that the Australian stars will regain fitness and join their squads later in the tournament as the season progresses.If you want, I can also rewrite it in a more professional newspaper style (like ESPNcricinfo/TOI format) or add a short intro summary and byline for publishing.
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