RCB Faces Injury Challenges Ahead of Match Against Lucknow Super Giants
Injury Concerns for RCB as Hazlewood Eyes Return
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is currently grappling with injury issues, even while positioned in the top four of the league. Josh Hazlewood, a crucial player for the squad, has been sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained during their match against Chennai Super Kings. Reports suggest that he may return for the upcoming game against Lucknow Super Giants.
Despite these reports, RCB has not issued any official updates regarding Hazlewood's recovery timeline. In his absence, Lungi Ngidi from South Africa stepped in and made a significant impact by taking three wickets against CSK. Should Hazlewood return, Ngidi may find himself back on the bench. In the 2025 IPL season, Hazlewood participated in 10 matches, claiming 18 wickets with an economy rate of 8.44.
Padikkal Out, Agarwal Joins RCB
RCB has encountered another setback with the news that their reliable top-order batsman, Devdutt Padikkal, will miss the remainder of IPL 2025 due to a right hamstring injury. To fill this gap, RCB has signed Mayank Agarwal for INR 1 crore. Padikkal had a commendable season, amassing 247 runs, including two half-centuries, and was instrumental in RCB's performance thus far. His contributions were even acknowledged by Virat Kohli.
As RCB prepares to clash with Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium on May 9, the pressure is mounting for both teams. LSG, currently ranked seventh with five wins and six losses, is on the brink of elimination and must secure a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, RCB, under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, is in a strong position at the top of the table and requires just one more win to guarantee their spot in the IPL 2025 playoffs.
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