Muzarabani joins RCB squad before playoffs

New Delhi

Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs. He replaces South African pacer Lungi Ngidi, who left to prepare for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. RCB signed Muzarabani for Rs 75 lakh.

Muzarabani, 28, was part of Zimbabwe’s recent Test match against England, where he took three wickets. He has played 70 T20Is, 13 Tests, and 55 ODIs for Zimbabwe, taking 78 T20I wickets. Though new to the IPL, he previously served as a net bowler for Lucknow Super Giants.

RCB’s head coach Andy Flower and Muzarabani have worked together in leagues like the PSL and ILT20. Muzarabani will be available for RCB’s last league match against Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has rejoined RCB after recovering from a shoulder injury. He missed games since April 27 and returned home due to IPL’s temporary suspension amid border tensions.

Hazlewood completed his rehab in Brisbane and resumed training with the Australian team for the WTC final. He leads RCB’s bowling with 18 wickets in 10 matches this season.

RCB can secure a top-two playoff spot with a win over LSG.