India, March 27 -- Royal Challengers Bengaluru have received a timely boost ahead of the new IPL season with Josh Hazlewood joining the squad in India. Although the Australian quick will miss the opening match, his arrival comes as a big positive for the defending champions, especially with Sri Lanka seamer Nuwan Thushara ruled out for the entire campaign. Hazlewood played a key role in RCB's title-winning run last year and remains central to their plans this season as well.

The experienced pacer is still working his way back to full fitness after dealing with hamstring and Achilles issues, which kept him out of the Ashes at home and the recent T20 World Cup. Despite those concerns, his presence in the camp lifts the mood and adds depth ...