India, April 10 -- Royal Challengers Bengaluru received a major boost ahead of their big IPL clash against Rajasthan Royals, with pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood cleared to bowl and named in the playing XI. The Australian quick had been awaiting clearance from Cricket Australia, which was carefully managing his workload following hamstring and Achilles injuries. Hazlewood played a key role in RCB's title-winning campaign last season, picking up 22 wickets in 12 matches at an impressive average of 17.54.

He missed the first two games this season while waiting for the green light, but returned to the XI for the RR clash, replacing Jacob Duffy. The New Zealand pacer had impressed in his absence, taking three wickets against SRH and two agains...