New Delhi
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have named Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs. RCB confirmed their playoff spot after Gujarat Titans defeated Delhi Capitals on Sunday.
Ngidi, who played just one match this season and took three wickets in a close win over Chennai Super Kings on May 3, is leaving to join South Africa’s squad for the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June.
Muzarabani, 27, will officially join RCB on May 26. He brings experience with 78 wickets from 70 T20 Internationals for Zimbabwe. He also has international experience in Tests and ODIs and had earlier served as a net bowler for Lucknow Super Giants in 2022. RCB signed him for ₹75 lakh.
In other team news, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have signed Madhya Pradesh leg-spinner Shivam Shukla as a replacement for West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell, who requires surgery for a tonsil issue. Shukla joins KKR for ₹30 lakh.
RCB, currently second in the table, will play their final home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday. KKR, already eliminated from playoff contention, will end their season facing Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 25 in New Delhi.