Hazlewood Injured, Dayal Accused: Why RCB Stars Miss IPL 2026 Opener

• Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal are absent from RCB's IPL 2026 season opener against SRH for different reasons.
• Hazlewood, RCB's top bowler last season with 22 wickets, is recovering from hamstring and Achilles injuries since November.
• Coach Andy Flower confirmed Hazlewood is fit but needs more time, expected to play by the third game on April 10.
• Yash Dayal is unlikely to participate in the tournament due to serious sexual harassment allegations, currently out on bail.
• RCB director Mo Bobat stated Dayal remains under contract but will not join the team, citing it's not in his or the franchise's best interest.