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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have moved swiftly to address a crucial void in their pace attack, announcing the replacement player for the departing South African quick Lungi Ngidi ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs.
Lungi Ngidi to leave IPL 2025 for WTC Final against Australia
The strategic acquisition comes as Ngidi is set to leave the franchise to join the Proteas squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord’s, commencing June 11.
Ngidi, who joined RCB for the current season, will feature in the team’s final league match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 23. However, his departure is slated for May 26, leaving RCB without a key overseas bowler just as the high-stakes knockout stage begins. This development posed a significant challenge for the Bengaluru-based franchise, particularly with Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood still recovering from a shoulder injury, limiting their options for a proven international fast bowler.
While Ngidi’s appearances this season have been limited to just one match, he made a notable impact, securing a three-wicket haul against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His absence, therefore, is undeniably a setback for RCB, a team that has already secured its playoff berth and is fiercely aiming for its maiden IPL title. The urgency to find a suitable replacement who could immediately contribute to the high-pressure environment of playoff cricket was paramount.
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Lungi Ngidi’s replacement for IPL 2025 playoffs
Stepping into this critical role is the towering 27-year-old Blessing Muzarabani. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 8 inches, Muzarabani is renowned for his ability to generate significant bounce and maintain disciplined lines and lengths, a quality that could prove invaluable on Indian pitches. A consistent performer for Zimbabwe across formats, he boasts a strong T20 international record, having claimed 78 wickets in 70 matches, alongside his experience in 12 Tests and 55 ODIs.
This will mark Muzarabani’s first official stint as a contracted IPL player, a significant milestone in his career. His prior IPL experience was limited to serving as a net bowler for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2022. However, he brings a wealth of franchise cricket experience from various leagues around the globe, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL) with Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings, the ILT20 with Gulf Giants, and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with St Kitts and Nevis Patriots. His recent form is particularly encouraging, having been named Player of the Match in Zimbabwe’s Test victory over Bangladesh after an impressive nine-wicket haul in Sylhet.
RCB have secured Muzarabani’s services for INR 75 lakh. He is expected to join the squad and be available for selection from May 26, just in time for the commencement of the playoff fixtures.
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