Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have confirmed the signing of Zimbabwean fast bowler blessing muzarabani as a temporary replacement for South African pacer Lungi Ngidi. Ngidi will be leaving the IPL 2025 mid-season to join South Africa’s squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, which starts on June 11 at Lord’s. This strategic move ensures RCB maintain a strong bowling lineup for the crucial playoff stages.
Profile of blessing muzarabani
Blessing muzarabani, 28, is a towering right-arm fast bowler standing at 6 feet 8 inches tall. He has represented Zimbabwe in 70 T20 Internationals, 12 Tests, and 55 One Day Internationals. Known for his pace and ability to generate bounce, muzarabani has played across various T20 leagues worldwide, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Caribbean Premier League (CPL). He was also a net bowler for the Lucknow Super Giants in the 2022 IPL season. He is expected to join RCB after completing Zimbabwe’s Test match against England, which ends on May 25.
RCB’s Current Standing and Upcoming Matches
RCB currently sit second in the IPL 2025 points table, securing their place in the playoffs. The team will face Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 and then conclude the league stage against Lucknow Super Giants on May 27. The addition of blessing muzarabani is expected to add depth to RCB’s pace attack as they make a strong push for their first-ever IPL title.
Impact of Lungi Ngidi’s Departure
Lungi Ngidi, who has played one match this season for RCB, leaving to join the national squad for the WTC final, created a critical vacancy in the team’s fast bowling resources. Signing blessing muzarabani as his replacement ensures RCB stay competitive in the death overs and maintain a varied bowling attack.
