Hazlewood's Precision and Fresh Mindset Fuel Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Victory Over Kolkata Knight Riders 🏏
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) commenced their IPL 2025 campaign with a resounding victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), largely thanks to a suffocating bowling performance led by Josh Hazlewood and a noticeable shift in team mentality. Hazlewood’s disciplined approach and the introduction of fresh faces proved instrumental in dismantling KKR’s challenge.
Hazlewood's Masterclass in Bowling
Josh Hazlewood set the tone for RCB’s triumph, delivering a spell that stifled KKR’s batting lineup. He claimed two crucial wickets – removing Quinton de Kock and Harshit Rana – and finished with figures of 2 for 22. His precision was evident in the 16 dot balls he bowled and his economical rate of 5.50. Hazlewood’s strategy revolved around consistent short-of-good-length deliveries, a tactic influenced by the pitch conditions – which had been under covers for nearly two days – and his own strengths on such surfaces. He explained that full deliveries weren't as effective in the current conditions, as they weren't generating significant swing and tended to stick in the wicket.
“It was more based on pitch and conditions,” Hazlewood stated in a post-match press conference. “The full ball probably wasn't gonna do as much unless you were searching for swing. I found that it was sort of sticking in the wicket a little and the bounce was quite good.”
Fresh Faces and a Renewed Mindset
RCB entered the match on a four-game losing streak against KKR, but the presence of six new faces in the starting XI seemed to erase any lingering psychological baggage. The team’s ability to move past past defeats and focus on the present was a significant factor in their victory. The dominant 95-run opening stand between Phil Salt and Virat Kohli further solidified RCB’s position, setting up a comfortable chase.
“It’s a positive influence – fresh people, fresh mindset, I think it’s big,” Hazlewood commented. “You mention the last four losses to KKR but I don't think anyone in the room would have known that because we gave about six caps before the game started. That's like a fresh start almost.”
Teamwork and Strategic Planning
The victory wasn't solely attributable to Hazlewood’s bowling; it was a collective effort. Krunal Pandya’s three-wicket burst and Suyash Sharma’s dismissal of Andre Russell were crucial in restricting KKR’s scoring. RCB’s bowlers’ meetings, where strategic plans are discussed, also played a vital role. The team emphasizes the importance of leveraging the experience of senior players while embracing the energy and perspective of newcomers.
“We’re always talking about how to best utilize everyone’s strengths,” Hazlewood explained. “It’s about finding the right balance and adapting to the conditions.”
Hazlewood's Return and Physical Condition
Making a comeback from a calf injury, Hazlewood expressed satisfaction with his physical condition, stating that bowling four overs didn't strain his body. He anticipates becoming stronger as the season progresses and highlighted the extensive work he put in off the field to reach this point.
“I feel like I got through the game very well,” Hazlewood said. “I know the intensity is through the roof, but it’s only four overs. I feel I’ll just keep building throughout the tournament.”
With a convincing victory under their belt and a revitalized team dynamic, Royal Challengers Bengaluru appear poised for a successful IPL 2025 campaign. 🏆