RCB head coach Andy Flower has reflected on the impact of the IPL 2025 mid-season suspension, calling it a “game-changing moment” that breathed new life into an injury-hit Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad. The week-long pause, triggered by Operation Sindoor and military escalation between India and Pakistan, forced the tournament to halt on May 9. While disruptive for the league, it proved timely for RCB.
With a demanding travel schedule that stretched over 17,084 kilometers, RCB entered the break struggling — both physically and in form. However, Flower noted that the pause allowed two key players, captain Rajat Patidar and pacer Josh Hazlewood, to recover from injuries that might have otherwise ruled them out for the season.
“Even during our celebrations, players pointed out how that break allowed Hazlewood to get fit again, and gave Rajat’s injured finger time to heal,” Flower shared after RCB lifted their maiden IPL trophy.
Hazlewood, who had been recovering from a shoulder issue in Australia, returned to claim 22 wickets in just 12 games, emerging as the team’s top wicket-taker. “You can’t ask for a better comeback,” he told broadcasters, reflecting on his impactful return.
Equally critical was Patidar’s performance. Captaining RCB for the first time, the 31-year-old showcased commanding form, scoring 312 runs at a strike rate of 143.77 over 15 matches. More importantly, Flower commended his poise under pressure.
“What impressed me the most was how unfazed he remained as a first-time captain. It didn’t affect his game, and it didn’t affect his demeanor,” said Flower. “He’s still the humble, composed Rajat we’ve always known. To lead a franchise like RCB — with its big personalities and expectations — at his age, and do it so calmly, is admirable.”
Despite missing key players like Tim David and Devdutt Padikkal, RCB’s revival post-suspension proved decisive. Flower acknowledged their absence but emphasised how the returning players and improved scheduling in the tournament’s second leg helped the squad reset and push toward glory.
From battling injuries and long travels to eventually lifting their first IPL title, RCB’s journey in IPL 2025 was as dramatic as it was historic — and according to Flower, the unexpected pause may have been the turning point.
