IPL 2025: Josh Hazlewood – The Consistent Bowler Who Mastered New Skills to Shine in T20s

Josh Hazlewood, known for his consistent line and length and disciplined seam bowling, has made a significant mark in IPL 2025, becoming one of the most successful T20 bowlers this season. His journey from being a traditional Test match bowler to excelling in the fast-paced T20 format is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to perfecting the skills required in shorter formats of the game.

A Key Investment for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

In the IPL 2025 auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured Hazlewood for ₹12.5 crore, a notable increase from his previous price. This move reflected RCB’s belief in Hazlewood’s ability to strengthen their bowling lineup. Hazlewood repaid that trust by delivering remarkable performances, including claiming 18 wickets in 10 matches, earning the prestigious Purple Cap for the season.

Developing New Skills for T20 Success

To succeed in T20 cricket, Hazlewood expanded his traditional bowling style by adding variations like cutters, cross-seam deliveries, and the knuckleball. Drawing inspiration from Australian T20 specialists such as Glenn McGrath and Andrew Tye, Hazlewood honed these skills, which helped him become a versatile and formidable bowler in the shortest format of the game. His ability to innovate with his deliveries has made him a standout player in this format.

Strategic Use Across Different Phases

RCB utilized Hazlewood’s versatility by placing him in various phases of the game. In the PowerPlay, he was exceptional, maintaining an economy rate of 5.53 and setting the stage early. During the middle overs, Hazlewood’s accuracy and variations helped him claim crucial wickets. In the death overs, his ability to stay calm and execute his skills effectively was vital in limiting the opposition’s run rate.

Key Moment: The 19th Over Against Rajasthan Royals

One of Hazlewood’s most defining moments came during a match against Rajasthan Royals. With the opposition needing 18 runs from 12 balls, Hazlewood delivered a brilliant 19th over, conceding just one run and taking two crucial wickets. This performance shifted the game in RCB’s favor and highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure.

Looking Ahead

Hazlewood’s impressive performances in IPL 2025 have solidified his position as a top T20 bowler and made him a crucial part of RCB’s bid for the IPL title. His transition from a traditional fast bowler to a dynamic T20 specialist shows how important adaptability and ongoing learning are in the modern cricketing world.

As the season progresses, Hazlewood’s role will be critical in RCB’s success, and his ability to evolve with the demands of T20 cricket serves as an inspiration to cricketers everywhere.