Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad may begin IPL 2026 without two of their key Australian fast bowlers. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins are still recovering from injuries and could miss the opening games of the season.
Hazlewood is likely to sit out RCB’s first two matches as he continues rehab from a hamstring injury and a related Achilles issue. The injury troubles began during Australia’s home summer and continued into the Ashes.
His absence is a big setback for RCB. Hazlewood played a major role in their IPL 2025 title win and finished as the team’s leading wicket taker with 22 wickets at an impressive average of 17.54.
RCB relied heavily on his accuracy and calm bowling in the powerplay and death overs last season. Missing him early in the campaign will force the team to adjust its bowling plans.
Sunrisers Hyderabad face a similar concern with their captain Pat Cummins. The Australian fast bowler is also expected to miss the first few matches because of a recurring back injury.
Cummins managed to play only one Test during the recent Ashes series, appearing in the Adelaide match before his back problem forced him out again. Since then, Australia’s medical staff have been careful with his workload.
Both Hazlewood and Cummins were already ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Australia struggled in the tournament and exited in the group stage without their experienced pace duo.
Cricket Australia is now closely managing the recovery of both bowlers. The board has not set a clear return date and wants to ensure they are fully fit before returning to competitive cricket.
The decision is also linked to Australia’s packed international calendar. Over the next 16 months, the team will tour South Africa, India and England before shifting focus to preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Because of this busy schedule, long term fitness is being given priority over immediate returns. Australian officials want their key fast bowlers ready for international duties.
Other Australian players are expected to arrive in India soon for the IPL. Hazlewood and Cummins could still join their teams later in the tournament if their recovery progresses well.
For now, RCB and SRH may have to start their IPL 2026 campaigns without two of their most important overseas stars.