Josh Hazlewood recently opened up on the emotional difference between winning an Indian Premier League (IPL) title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and lifting the trophy earlier in his career with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The Australian speedster, who was part of CSK’s triumphant 2021 campaign, admitted that RCB’s maiden IPL title felt far more emotional because of the franchise’s long wait for success.
Hazlewood played a crucial role in RCB’s historic title-winning season in IPL 2025 and has once again emerged as one of the franchise’s key bowlers in the ongoing 2026 campaign.
Josh Hazlewood reflects on emotional RCB title triumph
Speaking about the contrasting experiences, Hazlewood said winning trophies with CSK almost felt routine due to the franchise’s consistent dominance in the tournament over the years.
“It was special for me to do it for the guys who’d been here for 18 years,” Hazlewood said.
“Some of the support staff had been here a long time without much reward, so it was great to win one there. At CSK, winning finals almost felt like normality, like it was just another year where we were in the final or winning it.”
The Australian pacer further explained why RCB’s breakthrough title felt particularly meaningful.
“Here, it felt like the franchise had really earned that first one,” he added.
Josh Hazlewood also praised the current environment within the RCB setup and highlighted the calmness around the squad compared to his previous stint with the franchise.
“I think there’s a lot more calmness around the group now,” Hazlewood said.
“The team itself is more experienced and there are some really seasoned people in both the playing group and support staff. Earlier, it probably felt a bit more like a rollercoaster based purely on results. Now it feels more level and process-driven rather than emotional.”
Hazlewood continues to play vital role for RCB
The experienced fast bowler has remained one of RCB’s most dependable performers across the last two IPL seasons. His ability to deliver under pressure, especially during the power play and death overs, has played a major role in Bengaluru’s resurgence. The Aussie standout has taken 11 wickets in nine games for RCB this season.
RCB is currently enjoying another strong IPL campaign in 2026, holding the top spot on the points table and remaining among the leading contenders for the title. Josh Hazlewood’s partnership with fellow senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has provided balance and control to the bowling attack throughout the season.