RCB Signs Blessing Muzarabani as Replacement for Lungi Ngidi: IPL 2025 Update

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season has reached a crucial point, with teams preparing for the final stretch of matches before the playoffs. One of the most talked-about developments comes from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who have officially signed Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for South African pacer Lungi Ngidi. This strategic change is expected to strengthen RCB’s bowling attack ahead of high-pressure games.

In this article, we take a closer look at why this decision was made, who Muzarabani is, and what his inclusion could mean for RCB in the remaining matches of the season. For more IPL news and team updates, visit Sky Sports.

Why RCB Needed a Replacement?

Lungi Ngidi, who was bought by RCB for ₹1 crore during the IPL 2025 auction, has been released from the squad due to his national commitments. He will be heading back to South Africa to prepare for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Ngidi played only one match this season, in which he took three crucial wickets, showcasing his ability to make an impact in limited opportunities.

With Ngidi’s departure and uncertainty around the return of Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood due to a shoulder injury, RCB was in immediate need of a capable and match-ready fast bowler. The franchise acted quickly to bring in Blessing Muzarabani, a move that has sparked interest and optimism among RCB fans and cricket experts alike.

Who is Blessing Muzarabani?

Blessing Muzarabani is a 28-year-old right-arm fast bowler from Zimbabwe. Standing at an imposing height of 6 feet 8 inches, he is known for his ability to generate steep bounce and deliver sharp pace — qualities that are valuable in T20 cricket, especially on Indian pitches that often favour aggressive seamers with good height.

Muzarabani has represented Zimbabwe in all three formats of the game and has been a key figure in their bowling unit. His performances in various international T20 leagues, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and the ILT20 in UAE, have made him a seasoned campaigner in franchise cricket.

Interestingly, Muzarabani was also part of the IPL in 2022 as a net bowler for Lucknow Super Giants. While he did not make it to the main squad at that time, his presence in the IPL environment gave him insight into the tournament’s pressure and expectations. His current signing with RCB is seen as a well-earned opportunity to showcase his skills on the big stage.

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What does Muzarabani bring to RCB?

RCB’s decision to bring in Blessing Muzarabani is not just a short-term replacement; it reflects a tactical shift in their bowling plans. Here’s what he is expected to offer:

• Bounce and Seam Movement: Muzarabani’s height allows him to extract extra bounce, which can be particularly effective on Indian pitches that favour seamers with natural lift.
• Variety in Bowling Attack: With other bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Reece Topley in the mix, Muzarabani adds a different dimension, especially against teams that struggle with short-pitched deliveries.
• Experience in Pressure Situations: Having played in various global leagues, he has faced tough match situations, which will help him handle the intensity of the IPL playoffs.
• Fresh Energy: Entering the tournament at this stage gives him a chance to make an immediate impact without the fatigue other players may be experiencing at this point in the season.

RCB fans can track Blessing Muzarabani’s match performances and IPL 2025 updates by visiting Sky Sports.

RCB’s Current Standings and Next Matches

As of now, Royal Challengers Bangalore have already secured a spot in the IPL 2025 playoffs with 17 points from 12 matches. Their final league matches are scheduled against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 and Lucknow Super Giants on May 27. These games will help determine their playoff position and could provide Muzarabani with an early opportunity to feature in the playing XI.

With Hazlewood’s status still unclear and team management looking for bowling consistency, Muzarabani could be a valuable inclusion in the remaining matches.

For fixtures, live scores, and exclusive analysis, explore Sky Sports.

A Motivating Opportunity for Muzarabani

For Blessing Muzarabani, this is not just another league appearance — it is a chance to prove his potential in one of the world’s most competitive cricket tournaments. His signing with a high-profile team like RCB can open doors to future IPL opportunities and further international recognition.

At the same time, RCB will be hoping that this new addition brings balance to their bowling line-up and gives them the edge in the playoffs. With experienced players like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis leading the charge, a strong bowling unit is essential to support their match-winning batting.

To stay informed about RCB’s playoff preparations, visit Sky Sports.

Final Thoughts

RCB’s decision to sign Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for Lungi Ngidi shows how quickly teams must adapt in the IPL. As the tournament nears its final leg, every change can influence the outcome of the playoffs.

Whether Muzarabani gets immediate game time or becomes a backup for now, his signing brings renewed energy and strength to RCB’s pace attack. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he performs under pressure.

For continuous coverage of the IPL 2025 season and expert insights into team strategies, bookmark Sky Sports.