Bhuvneshwar Kumar Fitness Update: RCB Hopes for Senior Pacer’s Availability in IPL 2025 Southern Derby vs CSK
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the senior pacer for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), is a key player the franchise hopes to have fit for their IPL 2025 southern derby against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday (March 28).
After being signed by RCB for a hefty Rs 10.75 crore at last year’s auction, Bhuvneshwar was expected to be an integral part of the squad, particularly as someone who would share the new ball with fellow pacer Josh Hazlewood. However, the 35-year-old missed RCB’s campaign opener against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) due to a minor injury, as the franchise confirmed prior to the match.
Key Highlights:
RCB’s Performance Without Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Despite Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s absence, RCB managed to secure a win against KKR, largely thanks to stellar performances from Krunal Pandya with the ball, and Phil Salt and Virat Kohli with the bat. In his place, Jammu and Kashmir pacer Rasikh Salam Dhar was drafted into the playing eleven, but RCB will be keen on having Bhuvneshwar Kumar back in action soon.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Fitness Update
There is hope for Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the playing XI for the southern derby, as he has been spotted bowling in the nets, which suggests that he is recovering well from his injury. RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik also provided a positive update during the pre-match press conference, stating, “As far as I know, there are no fitness concerns. Yes, Bhuvi did not play the last game but he bowled and felt good yesterday. So, we will wait on that.”
This statement further suggests that Bhuvneshwar Kumar may be ready to play against CSK, with Rasikh Salam Dhar likely making way for the experienced pacer in the lineup.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s IPL Experience and Record Against CSK
Bhuvneshwar Kumar brings with him vast experience in the Indian Premier League (IPL), having played 11 consecutive seasons for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), including their 2016 IPL title-winning campaign. Additionally, Bhuvneshwar had a brief stint with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during the Champions League T20 in 2009.
In his IPL career, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has claimed 181 wickets in 176 matches at a respectable economy rate of 7.56. Against CSK, he has a record of 13 wickets in 20 innings. Notably, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, he has picked up 7 wickets in 12 innings.
Can Bhuvneshwar Kumar Make a Difference for RCB Against CSK?
With Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s fitness looking promising, RCB fans will be hoping that the senior pacer’s experience and skill can help the team in their crucial encounter against CSK. The return of Bhuvneshwar Kumar will add depth to RCB’s bowling attack, especially as the team looks to strengthen its performance ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
Stay tuned for updates on RCB‘s playing XI and Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s inclusion as the southern derby draws closer.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald
