RCB Shocks with Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Exclusion in Opening Match

In the opening match of the Indian Premier League 2025, the exclusion of swing master Bhuvneshwar Kumar from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) playing 11 left fans shocked, especially considering his notable price in the mega auction. The judgment to exclude one of the most consistent and seasoned bowlers in the league’s history, who has picked 181 wickets in 176 matches, shocked many, including former cricketer and commentator Ravi Shastri. So Let’s take a look at RCB Shocks with Bhuvneshwar Kumar Exclusion in Opening Match. So Let’s take a look at RCB Shocks with Bhuvneshwar Kumar Exclusion in Opening Match.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s new skipper, Rajat Patidar, won the toss and chose to bowl first, a decision that generally encourages teams to include an extra bowler, particularly with the Impact Player rule. However, Royal Challengers Bengaluru opts to field only four specialist bowlers, depending on all-rounder Liam Livingstone and Krunal Pandya. This judgment was unexplainable, given Bhuvneshwar’s way record and his ability to deliver in pressure situations.

RCB’s Bowling Strategy Fails Without Bhuvneshwar Kumar

In the opening match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood, started well by providing early breakthroughs and kept Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at 9/1 in the first three overs.

However, as the game progressed, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) struggled without a third powerful seamer. When RCB brought in Rasikh Salam Dar, KKR’s captain, Ajinkya Rahane, took advantage, he hit a few sixes and a four, helping KKR to acquire momentum. By the end of the 6th over, Kolkata Knight Riders had scored 60 runs for one wicket. In the next few overs, RCB handed away 51 runs in three overs, showing how much they missed Bhuvneshwar in the team.

Bhuvneshwar’s Exclusion Raises Questions About RCB’s Strategy

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s exclusion, especially after his uniform performances in previous seasons, has raised questions about RCB’s strategy and team composition. Fans will be eager to see whether the decision will be justified as the IPL goes.

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