The excitement around the Ipl start date for the 2026 season has already begun to build, but even before the first ball is bowled, major teams are facing early setbacks. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been dealt a significant blow as their key fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is set to miss the opening two matches of the tournament due to injury concerns.
The much-anticipated IPL 2026 season is scheduled to kick off on March 28, with a blockbuster opening clash between RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. However, both teams are likely to be without their premier Australian pacers, raising questions about team balance and early momentum.
Hazlewood Ruled Out of Initial Matches
RCB’s pace attack will feel the absence of Josh Hazlewood, who is still recovering from a combination of hamstring and Achilles injuries. The Australian speedster has not yet regained full fitness, forcing the franchise to take a cautious approach ahead of the tournament.
Hazlewood’s absence is particularly significant considering his outstanding performance in the previous season, where he played a crucial role in helping RCB secure the title. His ability to deliver breakthroughs in key moments and maintain tight lines made him one of the most reliable bowlers in the squad.
Injury setbacks have already disrupted his recent cricketing calendar. Hazlewood was unable to participate in the Ashes series due to similar fitness issues, and his recovery has taken longer than expected. With a packed international schedule ahead, both the player and team management are prioritizing long-term fitness over an early IPL return.
Cummins Also Likely to Miss Opening Game
Sunrisers Hyderabad are facing a similar challenge, as their captain Pat Cummins is also unlikely to feature in the opening match. Cummins has been recovering from a back injury and has spent considerable time in rehabilitation.
His potential absence is a major concern for SRH, not only because of his bowling capabilities but also due to his leadership role. As captain, Cummins has been central to the team’s strategy and overall direction.
Key Player Availability for Opening Match
| Team | Player | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCB | Josh Hazlewood | Out (First 2 Matches) | Hamstring & Achilles injury |
| SRH | Pat Cummins | Doubtful | Back injury |
Opening Match Details
The IPL 2026 opener promises to be a high-voltage encounter despite the injury concerns. Fans are eagerly waiting for the action to begin on the confirmed Ipl start date, with Bengaluru hosting the curtain-raiser.
IPL 2026 Opening Match Overview
| Match | Date | Venue | Teams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match 1 | March 28, 2026 | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru | RCB vs SRH |
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already released the schedule for the first 20 matches, setting the stage for another thrilling IPL season.
SRH May Need a Stand-In Captain
With Cummins unlikely to be available, Sunrisers Hyderabad might be forced to appoint a temporary captain for the opening fixture. Among the potential candidates, Ishan Kishan appears to be a strong contender.
Kishan has demonstrated leadership qualities in domestic cricket, having guided Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. His aggressive style of play and confidence on the field make him a suitable option to lead the side in the absence of Cummins.
Injury Concerns Extend Beyond IPL
Both Hazlewood and Cummins have been dealing with injuries for some time, which also ruled them out of the recent T20 World Cup. Cricket Australia has been cautious with their recovery, ensuring that the players are given adequate time to regain full fitness.
The management’s decision reflects a broader strategy, where player workload and long-term availability are prioritized over short-term participation in franchise tournaments.
Focus on International Commitments
Australian selectors have made it clear that international cricket remains the top priority for their players. With several high-profile series lined up against South Africa, India, and England, along with preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, maintaining player fitness is crucial.
This approach has influenced the availability of key players in the IPL, as franchises must adapt to last-minute changes and manage their squads accordingly.
Impact on Teams Ahead of IPL Start
The absence of key players like Hazlewood and Cummins could significantly impact both RCB and SRH in the early stages of the tournament. For RCB, the challenge will be to reorganize their bowling attack and find suitable replacements who can deliver under pressure.
Similarly, SRH will need to adjust not only their bowling plans but also their leadership structure if Cummins is unavailable. Early matches in the IPL often set the tone for the rest of the season, making these challenges even more critical.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Start Date in India: BCCI Confirms March 28 Kickoff, Key Venues and RCB Updates
Conclusion
As the Ipl start date draws closer, excitement continues to build among fans worldwide. However, injuries to key players have already added an element of uncertainty to the tournament’s opening phase.
While RCB and SRH prepare for their high-profile clash on March 28, both teams will need to adapt quickly to overcome these setbacks. With new leaders potentially stepping up and bench players getting opportunities, IPL 2026 promises to deliver drama and unpredictability right from the very first match.
Despite early challenges, the league remains one of the most anticipated cricketing events globally, and fans can expect another season filled with thrilling performances and unforgettable moments.