IPL 2025 is all set to start from May 17 with the match between RCB and KKR and the final is scheduled on June 3. As such, it has created worries as far as the availability of foreign players throughout is concerned and BCCI has decided to address the issue using temporary replacement players option. Under the new rule a player would be allowed to bring an official replacement to play for him after resumption of the IPL if he is not going to be available for the League. Those players cannot be retained for the next edition though but it has left a window for accommodation of the deficiencies in the form of gaps that were to be created in various teams in the wake of the rescheduling of the IPL.
Josh Hazlewood Not Returning For IPL 2025
The bowling department of RCB has been led by Josh Hazlewood in the 18th edition of IPL, he has picked 18 wickets in 10 matches. But, he has suffered from a decent number of injuries in the last few instances and with the up coming WTC final, the prospect increasing influence of him not coming back for the remainder of IPL2025 is pretty high. Therefore, RCB would require to have an experienced international bowler in his slot, and Naveen-ul-Haq is a perfect fit for that position.
Also Read: RCB Playoffs Qualification Scenario: Here’s How The Absence Of Overseas Players Can Again Ruin Title Hopes In IPL 2025
Why Naveen-ul-Haq Is His Potential Replacement
Naveen-ul-Haq is an excellent option to come in place of Josh Hazlewood in the ongoing IPL 2025 season for RCB. The Afghan pacer is famous for his ability to bowl death overs and remaining clam in pressure situations which are both important aspects of RCB’s attack. With a high reputation in T20s, he has picked up 259 wickets in 214 innings averaging 24.27 with a strike rate of 17.4 has demonstrated his usefulness in the shortest format time and again. His previous success in the IPL increases his credibility, and with RCB’s need for a known performer as a bowler, given the absence of Hazlewood, Naveen may just be exactly what RCB needs for the time being.
