3 Players Who Could Replace Josh Hazlewood in IPL 2026

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is returning with yet another season on March 28. The 19th edition of the tournament will begin with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) playing against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. RCB will play in the tournament opener for the third time in a row. They are also the reigning champions this season and will look to defend their title. However, ahead of the tournament, the Bengaluru-based team could face a major challenge due to uncertainty surrounding the availability of their star bowler, Josh Hazlewood.

Top 3 Josh Hazlewood Replacements in IPL 2026

Josh Hazlewood was in remarkable form in the previous IPL season, picking up 22 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 17.35. He did miss a few matches due to injury. The same threat is looming around the player and the franchise as he is still recovering from injury. The right arm pacer is yet to get medical clearance ahead of the biggest cricket league in the world. Now, the franchise will look for other options similar to Hazlewood's expertise for the upcoming season.

3. Alzarri Joseph

West Indies'pacer Alzarri Joseph is an outstanding bowler and has played in the IPL previously. He was with RCB back in 2024 as they purchased him for INR 11.50 crores. Since then, he hasn't featured in the tournament. But, he can put an impact on the bowling department for the franchise. He bowls at a consistent pace above 140 kmph and maintains proper line and length. He can be crucial in the powerplays, as well as the death overs.

2. Gerald Coetzee

Gerald Coetzee is another brilliant option for RCB in the IPL. The 25-year-old South African cricketer has played for the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025. His wicket-taking ability in the middle overs makes him a good contender to replace Josh Hazlewood in the RCB squad. He was picked up by the GT in 2025 for INR 2.4 crores. He played just four matches that season and picked up two wickets. Coetzee's pace and bounce could make him a dangerous weapon in the IPL 2026.

1. Jhye Richardson

Jhye Richardson was last seen with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024 season. They brought him in 2023, but he was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. In the next season, he was brought by the Delhi Capitals, where he played just a single game. He will be a perfect replacement for Hazlewood in RCB. He is famous for bowling in the powerplays and getting those much-needed breakthroughs. Along with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, RCB will require a player to perform in the powerplays, and Richardson can be the one.