IPL 2025: RCB Faces Major Player Absences Ahead of KKR Clash
IPL 2025 Resumes with New Schedule
The IPL 2025 season is set to continue, with the updated schedule now available. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has designated the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to kick off the revised schedule. Their match is slated for May 17 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. RCB has had a vibrant season thus far, but uncertainty looms over their chances of qualifying for the playoffs, as seven key players are expected to miss the remainder of the tournament, potentially jeopardizing their campaign.
Key Players Missing from RCB
RCB is grappling with significant player availability issues. Rajat Patidar is likely to miss several matches due to a finger injury sustained during the match against CSK, and he may only participate as an Impact Player later on. Josh Hazlewood's return is also doubtful following the IPL's abrupt suspension due to the India-Pakistan conflict. Devdutt Padikkal has already been ruled out. Additionally, players like Romario Shepherd, Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, and Liam Livingstone are unavailable due to national team commitments, as the West Indies and England are set to compete in a three-match ODI series starting May 29. This situation will force RCB to navigate the tournament with a reduced roster.
Revised RCB Fixtures
| Fixture | Date | Day | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs KKR | 17th May 2025 | Saturday | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru | 7:30 PM IST |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs SRH | 23rd May 2025 | Friday | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru | 7:30 PM IST |
| Lucknow Super Giants vs RCB | 27th May 2025 | Tuesday | Ekana Stadium, Lucknow | 7:30 PM IST |
Playoff Qualification Outlook
With three matches remaining, Royal Challengers Bengaluru must secure at least one victory to reach 18 points and secure a spot in the top four. Achieving two or more wins would significantly enhance their chances of finishing in the top two. Conversely, if they lose all three matches, they will be reliant on the outcomes of other teams and their net run rate, as they would remain stuck at 16 points.