The T20 cricket season is kicking it into high gear with the IPL 2026 first match underway. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru begin their IPL Trophy defense against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28th, 2026. With Josh Hazlewood on the sidelines, RCB leaned on Jacob Duffy during the powerplay of their opening match.
Performing at a high level during your debut can be hard to do. Connor McDavid, playing his first NHL game, or Lebron James with his NBA debut, high-profile players still need time to truly make a mark in the big sports leagues.
While Duffy is no stranger to high-pressure situations, performing in the IPL is significantly different than any other cricket league. Here is what you need to know about Duffy’s IPL debut, how much he sold for at the IPL 2026 auction, and an update on Hazlewood’s impending return.
Jacob Duffy Makes IPL 2026 Debut
Before March 28th, 2026, Duffy had not played in the IPL. The majority of Duffy’s T20 experience has come from international cricket, Men’s Hundred, and Vitality Blast.
In his first IPL match, Duffy collected a three-wicket haul while only surrendering 22 runs. Two of his three wickets came in the same over. Additionally, he finished with a 5.50 Economy and 13 dot balls.
Jacob Duffy, What You Need to Know
- Age: 31 years old
- Bowling Style: Right-arm fast medium
- IPL Sold Price: INR 2 Crore
- Awards: Sir Richard Hadlee Medal, ANZ Test Player of the Year, Windsor Cup
Josh Hazlewood’s Return Looming
Of course, the major reason Duffy was in the playing 11 for the opening IPL match was injury. Josh Hazlewood is currently sidelined, although his return could be imminent.
A new report from a long-time cricket journalist reveals that Hazlewood could be coming back soon. He was in attendance at the IPL 2026 opening match and made a keen observation from the crowd.
“As I look down, to my left, Hazlewood in red and black is bowling,” reports Harsha Bhogle. “To my right, in orange, Cummins is coming off his full run. Wonder how long before we see them in a game.”
Hazlewood was ruled out of the IPL opener a few days ago, but he should return at any time.
Andy Flower on Josh Hazlewood
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru coach gave an update on Hazlewood prior to RCB’s first match.
“Hazlewood arrived yesterday,” Andy Flower said via Hindustan Times. “He’s looking fit. I did comment to him that he looks even younger than I remember him, so he’s enjoyed some good downtime, but he’s worked hard to get himself back up to full fitness. It’s great to have him here. It’s even great to have him here in our dressing room and in the meetings.”
“He won’t be ready for tomorrow, because he’s just got off the plane, and we’ll be monitoring his fitness very closely and looking forward to him making his entrance into the IPL.”
Hazlewood was one of the top bowlers in the IPL for 2025. He collected 22 wickets on 264 balls in 12 matches. He surrendered only 386 runs, finishing the year with an 8.77 ERA.
Jacob Duffy’s 3-Wicket Haul in IPL Debut as Hazlewood’s Return Looms