Muzarabani Joins RCB as Temporary Replacement for Ngidi

Player Replacement Summary Outgoing: Lungi Ngidi (joining South Africa’s WTC final camp) Incoming: Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe) Replacement effective from: May 26 Fee: INR 75 lakh RCB's final league match: May 27 vs LSG in Lucknow 🌍 Availability Catch Muzarabani is in Zimbabwe’s squad for their Test against England at Trent Bridge (May 22–25) Tight turnaround: Will need to fly from Nottingham to Lucknow within 24–36 hours Zimbabwe’s next fixture: June 3 vs South Africa in Arundel, coinciding with IPL final – if RCB qualify His availability might therefore be restricted to RCB’s final league game and possibly one playoff match, depending on travel and Zimbabwe's commitments. 🔎 Why Muzarabani? Height (6'8") + bounce: Offers a similar tall fast-bowling profile to Ngidi Economical and disciplined: Particularly useful on two-paced or slower tracks, like Lucknow T20 franchise experience: Has played in the PSL, BPL, LPL, and The Hundred 🔥 RCB’s Bowling Boost? With RCB pushing for a top-two finish, Muzarabani’s inclusion—albeit temporary—could offer: Fresh energy in a playoff race Pace depth alongside Mohammed Siraj and Lockie Ferguson Flexibility in rotating overseas quicks if needed 🚨 Wildcard Factor If Muzarabani arrives in time and adapts quickly post-Test duties, he could be a valuable surprise package—especially in Lucknow, where conditions could favour his hit-the-deck style. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) find themselves in a strong yet slightly precarious position heading into the final stretch of IPL 2025, and the latest wave of overseas departures adds critical context to their playoff push. 🚑 Squad Disruptions OUT: Josh Hazlewood – Shoulder injury, uncertain return Jacob Bethell – Leaving early for England's WTC prep (will miss penultimate game) Lungi Ngidi – Leaving May 26 for South Africa’s WTC final prep Temporary IN: Blessing Muzarabani – Available from May 26 (may play only vs LSG and/or playoffs)