Josh Hazlewood, RCB's leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets in 11 IPL matches, is crucial for the final against Punjab Kings. His impressive record in tournament finals includes U19 World Cup, 50-over World Cup, and IPL victories.

While Shreyas Iyer enters the final on the back of a stellar innings, his record against Hazlewood in IPL is concerning.

Josh Hazlewood's IPL return remains doubtful following a shoulder injury, amidst the tournament's week-long suspension due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. The BCCI halted the season due to tensions between India and Pakistan across the border.

Over the years, the Champions Trophy has witnessed several spectacular performances, especially from bowlers who turned the game on their head with their brilliant spells. 
 

The news of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the Champions Trophy comes on the same day when Stoinis announced his retirement from ODI cricket. 

Australia’s Josh Hazlewood is facing uncertainty ahead of the remaining Border-Gavaskar Test series against India after experiencing calf soreness on the fourth morning of the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.

The 33-year-old speedster suffered a calf strain during training last week. Riley Meredith, who last played for the Australia back in 2021, as been included in the squad.

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood's precision with the ball led to a resounding 10-wicket triumph over the West Indies at the Adelaide Oval.

In light of Hazlewood's absence, in-form all-rounder Michael Neser has been called up to the squad and will be in contention for a place in the final XI. The Event Technical Committee of the World Test Championship Final has approved Neser's inclusion.