NEWS
Follow UsAustralia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is one of the most sought-after bowlers across formats right now. He is currently nursing an Achilles Heel injury that has kept him out of action in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. While a date for his return has not been confirmed, he is expected to be available from the fourth week of April.
Hazlewood had developed an interest in javelin throw in his school days but eventually chose cricket over it.
Speaking of why he chose cricket, Hazlewood said, “Cricket was my first passion. I think I was 15-16 years of age when I guess I had to make a choice. I just did athletics in the winters to keep myself fit and get some time off [from] school, really.”
"The fact that there were more low days than high days in an individual sport like athletics, it firmed up his mind to take up cricket," Hazlewood said on RCB podcast.
“It [cricket] was a team event, obviously. So, that pushed me in that direction. Lot’s of fun playing with your teammates than somewhat solo career in athletics which can be a bit lonely sometimes."
“Individual sports is so difficult; I cannot do it for a long period of time… it’s probably more low days than high days.
“If you are in a team event, then it’s probably 50-50 (good and bad days)… you win or lose the game and even if you have a bad day or a bad week, then your teammates can have a great week and you can enjoy their success.
“I have learnt over the years to enjoy everyone’s success in the team rather than just your own self,” he added.
RCB secured Hazlewood's services in the IPL 2022 auction, where he was bought for INR 7.75 crore from a base price of INR 2 crore. The pacer finished as the second-highest wicket-taker for RCB last season, finishing with 20 wickets at 18.85 to go with an economy rate of 8.10.
RCB beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by eight wickets in their opening match of IPL 2023 and take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their next game on Thursday (April 6) at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
