From Javelin Throw to Cricket Stardom: Josh Hazlewood Becomes RCB's Trump Card in IPL 2025

In a dramatic IPL 2025 match against Rajasthan Royals, when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) looked set for their fourth consecutive defeat at home, it was Josh Hazlewood who turned the game on its head in the final two overs. Hazlewood, who once showed immense promise in athletics before dedicating himself fully to cricket, has now become a cornerstone of RCB’s campaign and a key figure for Virat Kohli as the team chases its elusive first IPL title.

Hazlewood: The Athletic Prodigy Who Chose Cricket

Josh Hazlewood’s journey to cricketing fame is nothing short of remarkable.
In his childhood, Hazlewood was not just passionate about cricket — he actively excelled in multiple sports, particularly athletics events like the javelin throw and discus throw. Playing countless games of cricket with his elder brother in the backyard laid his early foundation, but athletics also sharpened his physical prowess and competitive spirit.

Ultimately, Hazlewood chose cricket over athletics, citing the unique charm of team sports. In an interview, he explained, "Cricket appealed to me because even on a bad day individually, you could still celebrate the team's success." That sense of camaraderie and collective effort won his heart — and cricket won a champion.

IPL 2025: Hazlewood Leading RCB’s Charge

Fast forward to 2025, Hazlewood has become a vital cog in the RCB setup:

• Wickets Galore:
  In just 9 matches this season, the Australian pacer has taken 16 crucial wickets, delivering consistent performances and often rescuing his team at critical junctures.
• Kohli’s Trust:
  His calm demeanor and lethal bowling under pressure have made him one of Virat Kohli’s most trusted assets as RCB dreams of breaking its title drought in the IPL’s 18th season.
• Match-Winning Heroics:
  Against Rajasthan Royals, Hazlewood’s magic in the death overs not only saved Bangalore from an embarrassing loss but also reignited their playoff hopes.

A Career Decorated with Glory

Hazlewood's decision to focus solely on cricket has proven incredibly fruitful:

• Two-Time World Champion:
  He has lifted the ODI World Cup twice with Australia.
• T20 and Test Glory:
  Hazlewood also played pivotal roles in Australia’s T20 World Cup victory and the World Test Championship triumph.
• IPL Riches:
  Financially too, cricket brought immense success.
  RCB first bought him for ₹7.75 crore in the 2022 auction and retained him for 2023. Ahead of IPL 2025, they doubled down, snapping him up for a massive ₹12.50 crore at the mega auction — and he’s proving every penny worthwhile.

Eyes Set on the Ultimate Prize

The only major accolade missing from Hazlewood’s illustrious career remains an IPL trophy. With his stunning form, unshakeable discipline, and match-winning instincts, he is giving RCB and millions of fans new hope that 2025 could finally be the year they lift the coveted title.