Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar Isn’t Playing Today’s 1st Match of IPL 2025 Against KKR?

In the opening match of IPL 2025, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens. RCB won the toss and chose to bowl first, a decision that could set the tone for an exciting contest under the Kolkata lights.

Both teams have made key changes to their line-ups, with Spencer Johnson making his debut for KKR, adding depth to their bowling attack.

KKR’s Playing XI includes the likes of Quinton de Kock (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, and Ajinkya Rahane (c), alongside the dynamic all-rounders Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. Spencer Johnson, making his debut, will be a key figure in the pace attack, while Varun Chakravarthy will lead the spin department.

For RCB, the top order will rely heavily on Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar (c), with Liam Livingstone and Tim David adding explosive power in the middle.

The bowling department features experienced players like Josh Hazlewood and the young Suyash Sharma, with Krunal Pandya providing spin options.

Why is Bhuvneshwar Kumar not playing today?

The big question is that the star Indian bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is missing in today’s match. Bhuvneshwar Kumar was bought for 10.75 crores by the Bangalore management.

This decision raised many eyebrows. The management has decided to go in with 3 fast bowlers and 2 spinners. The fast bowlers playing in today’s match are Rasikh Salam, Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is injured and hence will miss today’s IPL Match against KKR.

“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,” Patidar said.

With both teams packed with star players, this promises to be a thrilling encounter in the IPL’s season opener.

Playing XI | KKR vs RCB

KKR XI – Quinton de Kock (wk), Venkatesh Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Rinku Singh, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Spencer Johnson, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy

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

Stay Updated Lates News at cricadium, follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, and Instagram