RCB Sign Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani as Lungi Ngidi’s Replacement for IPL 2025 Playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have confirmed the signing of Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi, who has been called up for national duty.

Ngidi is set to join South Africa’s squad for the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia, scheduled to be held at Lord’s from June 11. As a result, he will exit the IPL before the playoffs commence. Muzarabani is expected to link up with the RCB squad on May 26.

“Blessing Muzarabani replaces Lungi Ngidi at RCB,” the franchise said in an official statement. “Muzarabani – the Zimbabwe pacer – has so far played 70 T20Is and has picked 78 wickets from the same. Additionally, he has also represented Zimbabwe in 12 Tests and 55 ODIs. He will join RCB for INR 75 Lakh.”

Muzarabani, 27, brings height, pace, and international experience to RCB’s pace attack. Known for his ability to extract bounce and bowl with discipline, he previously served as a net bowler for Lucknow Super Giants in the 2022 season. 

While this will be his first stint as a main squad member in the IPL, the Zimbabwean speedster is no stranger to high-pressure environments.

RCB, who have secured a playoff berth after a strong finish in the league stages, will hope Muzarabani can quickly integrate and provide depth to their bowling options. With Ngidi’s departure creating a crucial void, the team’s ability to adjust and maintain momentum during the knockout stages could be decisive in their hunt for a maiden IPL title.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) also announced a replacement of their own. The franchise confirmed the signing of Madhya Pradesh leg-spinner Shivam Shukla in place of Rovman Powell. Powell, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the season, is reportedly set to undergo a surgical procedure for his tonsils.

These last-minute squad reshuffles highlight the delicate balance franchises must maintain between player availability and form, especially with the IPL playoffs fast approaching. Both RCB and KKR will be hoping their new additions can make an immediate impact when it matters most.