RCB Signs Blessing Muzarabani as Ngidi's Replacement for IPL 2025

RCB Welcomes Blessing Muzarabani

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have officially announced the signing of Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani to replace South Africa's Lungisani Ngidi for the remainder of IPL 2025. This decision comes as Ngidi prepares to depart the tournament to fulfill national team obligations.

“Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have selected Blessing Muzarabani as the replacement for Lungisani Ngidi, who will be leaving to join South Africa for national duties. The replacement will take effect from May 26, 2025,” stated the IPL in an official announcement.

Muzarabani, aged 28, has played 70 T20 internationals, claiming 78 wickets. He has also participated in 12 Test matches and 55 One Day Internationals for Zimbabwe. Known for his height and ability to generate bounce, the right-arm pacer will join RCB for a fee of INR 75 lakh, marking his debut in the IPL.

Ngidi, who joined RCB this season, played only one match, where he recorded figures of 3/30. He was brought in as a replacement for Josh Hazlewood in a match against Chennai Super Kings, contributing to a narrow victory for RCB by 2 runs.

RCB Aims for Top-Two Finish

Having already secured a spot in the IPL 2025 playoffs with 8 victories out of 12 matches, RCB currently holds the second position on the points table. With only two league matches remaining, the team, led by Rajat Patidar, is striving to finish in the top two, which would provide them with two opportunities to reach the final.

However, it is uncertain whether Muzarabani will be included in the starting lineup immediately, particularly if Josh Hazlewood makes his return. The Australian pacer has been dealing with a shoulder issue, and RCB is monitoring his recovery closely.

"He's been managing a shoulder niggle for a couple of weeks now. He is still in Australia working on his rehabilitation. We currently have no updates, so we will assess his situation day by day,” said RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat prior to the rain-affected match against KKR.

With positive momentum, RCB is hopeful for Hazlewood's timely return as they aim for a top-two finish and a successful playoff run.