Why Is Bhuvneshwar Kumar Not Playing In RCB vs KKR IPL 2025 Opener?

Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Source:@Garten254,x.com)

In a significant development, experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar will miss the opening match of IPL 2025 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens. The seasoned pacer was notably absent from the playing XI announced ahead of the highly anticipated encounter.

Why Is Bhuvneshwar Kumar Not Playing?

It is important to mention that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has likely picked up minor injury  which has led to his exclusion from the opening match. The toss, which was delayed due to the energetic opening ceremony, saw RCB captain Rajat Patidar winning the coin flip and opting to bowl first. 

 “We go with 2 spinners and 3 pacers. Salt, Liam, Tim, and Hazlewood fill the overseas quota! Unfortunately, Bhuvi misses out due to a minor injury. He’ll be back soon,” RCB franchise posted on X after the toss.

It is important to note that RCB has included pacers Yash Dayal and Rasikh Salam, alongside Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood for the opening match in the pace department. 

Yash Dayal was retained by RCB for a hefty Rs. 5.5 crore. The left-arm pacer, known for his sharp swing and aggressive bowling, has shown consistent form, making him crucial player for this match. Meanwhile, Rasikh Salam was bought for Rs. 6 crore by RCB. 

Bhuvneshwar returned to the franchise after 15 years after he was acquired for ₹10.75 crore at the IPL 2025 auction.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI 

Philip Salt (wk), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Salam, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal

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