Josh Hazlewood’s Stellar Bowling Performance in IPL 2026
Josh Hazlewood delivered an exceptional bowling performance during the 2026 IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Arun Jaitley Stadium. His efforts played a crucial role in shifting the momentum of the game in RCB’s favor.
RCB chose to bowl first, and Hazlewood made an immediate impact by taking the key wicket of KL Rahul on his very first delivery. The ball was a short one that landed outside the off stump. Rahul attempted to pull the ball but lost control, resulting in a high catch that was easily taken by wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma.
The next ball was even more impressive. Hazlewood bowled a good length delivery outside off. Sameer Rizvi tried to play a big shot away from his body, but the ball moved slightly and took the edge. Once again, Jitesh Sharma secured the catch behind the stumps. In just two balls, Hazlewood had taken two wickets and was on the verge of a hat-trick.
This moment completely changed the course of the game. Delhi Capitals faced sudden pressure, which came as a major shock to their players. Hazlewood showcased his T20 fast bowling excellence through his precise execution in the match.
Delhi Capitals’ Troubled Start
Delhi Capitals suffered a disastrous start to their innings. The team failed to form any partnerships after losing their initial wickets. Debutant Sahil Parakh faced only two balls before being dismissed for zero by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. KL Rahul managed just one run from three balls before getting out to Hazlewood. Sameer Rizvi also fell for zero on the next ball.
Tristan Stubbs attempted to play some shots and scored five runs from three balls, but he too was dismissed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Captain Axar Patel was also dismissed for zero after failing to make a run. Nitish Rana was on one run, and Abishek Porel had yet to score.
At 7 runs for 5 wickets in just 2.4 overs, Delhi Capitals were in serious trouble. Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled exceptionally well, taking three wickets while allowing only two runs in 1.4 overs. Hazlewood took two wickets for five runs in one over.
Impact on the Match
Players like David Miller still had to bat, but the damage caused by Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar early in the game made things significantly harder for Delhi Capitals. Their batting lineup was under immense pressure, and the loss of key wickets disrupted their rhythm.
Hazlewood’s performance not only highlighted his skills as a fast bowler but also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. His two wickets in quick succession set the tone for the rest of the match and gave RCB a strong foundation to build upon.
Key Moments from the Match
- Hazlewood’s first delivery to KL Rahul resulted in a crucial wicket.
- The second ball saw Sameer Rizvi fall to another well-executed delivery.
- Hazlewood was on a hat-trick after two consecutive wickets.
- Delhi Capitals struggled to recover from the early losses, with multiple players dismissed without scoring.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar contributed significantly with three wickets in a short spell.
- The pressure on Delhi Capitals increased as they lost wickets rapidly, making it difficult to regain control.
