Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been sidelined due to a minor injury that kept him out of the IPL 2025 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
The franchise confirmed that Kumar was not included in the playing XI as a precautionary measure.
However, recent updates suggest that he is expected to return for the upcoming match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 28, 2025.
Injury Overview
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was seen in the dugout during RCB’s first match, indicating that his injury was not severe.
The team hinted at his potential return through a social media post stating, “Bhuvi will be swinging back into action sooner and bolder than ever!”
This statement has raised hopes among fans and the team regarding his availability for the next game.
Performance Context
In his absence, young pacer Rasikh Salam had the opportunity to play but struggled, conceding 35 runs in three overs while managing to take the wicket of Sunil Narine.
Despite this, RCB’s bowling unit performed adequately against KKR, with Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal contributing effectively.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s record against CSK is noteworthy; he has taken 13 wickets in 20 matches against them at an average of 39.46, with an impressive economy rate of 6.90 runs per over.
His experience and skill set would be invaluable for RCB as they face a formidable opponent in CSK.
Implications of His Return
If Bhuvneshwar is fit to play against CSK, he could replace Rasikh Salam in the playing XI, providing RCB with a more experienced bowler to handle pressure situations.
His return would bolster RCB’s bowling attack significantly and add depth to their strategy moving forward in the tournament.
