Josh Hazlewood, a pacer for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who won Player of the Match in their five-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 20526, claimed to be in "good shape" and to have acclimated well to Bengaluru's slow conditions. Hazlewood underlined the significance of early condition assessment and plan adjustment while reflecting on his performance. "I felt considerably better and was in good form today. At the post-match presentation ceremony, Hazlewood remarked, "You have to look at who you are playing against, conditions play a part, slow wicket today, just had to whack that length."

In order to maintain his effectiveness in T20 cricket, the Australian pacer also emphasised his continued effort on variations, especially slower deliveries. "I'd like to have a few funky deliveries... always working on those slower balls... keep moving forward," he said.
Hazlewood added that one of RCB's main advantages in the match was their ability to judge match situations quickly, which allowed them to limit LSG to a below-average total. "Summing up the conditions as early as we can is a huge plus for us," he stated.
The quick bowler said he anticipates continuing to play frequently in the competition and expressed confidence in his availability and fitness for the forthcoming matches. "The plan is hopefully to keep playing; the schedule is pretty good here on, so I should be okay to keep playing."In IPL 2026, the reigning champions, RCB, defeated LSG by five wickets in Bengaluru after chasing down a modest total of 147 with 29 balls remaining.
With a smooth 49, Virat Kohli guided the chase, while quick-fire contributions from Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma sent RCB to the top of the points standings.
Earlier, LSG was bowled out for 146 after suffering a spectacular batting collapse after being asked to bat first. Mitchell Marsh put up a valiant 40, but their effort was ruined by frequent wickets and a lack of momentum. Rasikh Salam Dar led the way with a four-wicket haul, while Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar provided crucial support.

LSG also suffered setbacks, including Rishabh Pant retiring hurt briefly and later falling cheaply, as RCB's disciplined bowling attack kept them under pressure throughout.
RCB's overall performance solidified their place in the tournament standings and guaranteed a clear victory.
With eight points from five games, the reigning champions have risen to the top. Conversely, with four points in as many games, LSG is in seventh position.