IPL 2025 Auction: Bhuvneshwar Kumar Joins Royal Challengers Bengaluru for Rs 10.75 Crore, Becomes Most Expensive Player on Day 2

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Riyadh, Nov 25: In a dramatic turn of events on day two of the IPL 2025 Auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made headlines by securing the services of veteran Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar for a staggering Rs 10.75 crore.

The 34-year-old right-arm pacer, known for his swing and accuracy, was previously a crucial member of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) squad. While SRH retained him for Rs 4.20 crore in the 2022 auction, RCB spared no expense in acquiring the seasoned bowler this year.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's experience and skill make him a valuable addition to the RCB lineup. Over his IPL career, which began in 2011, he has played 176 matches, claiming 181 wickets at an average of 27.23 and an economy rate of 7.56. His best performance in a match remains an impressive 5/19, showcasing his ability to deliver match-winning spells.

A Milestone Moment: 300 T20 Wickets

A day before the start of the highly-anticipated IPL mega auction, Bhuvneshwar reached a significant milestone, becoming the first Indian fast bowler to achieve 300 T20 wickets.

He accomplished this feat in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 23, while representing Uttar Pradesh against Delhi at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. His milestone wicket came when he dismissed Delhi opener Yash Dhull for six, marking a memorable return to competitive cricket since the IPL 2024 season.

This remarkable achievement places him among the elite Indian bowlers in T20 cricket, with only spinners Yuzvendra Chahal (354), Piyush Chawla (314), and R Ashwin (310) ahead of him on the all-time list of Indian T20 wicket-takers.

A Senior Bowler with Unwavering Consistency

Known for his remarkable consistency and ability to swing the ball both ways, Bhuvneshwar has been a stalwart for the Indian national team and his IPL franchises. His disciplined bowling and experience at the death make him an asset in the shortest format, and his addition to RCB is expected to bolster their bowling lineup significantly.

For RCB, Bhuvneshwar's presence could be instrumental in addressing their historical weakness in the bowling department. With his extensive experience and proven track record, he brings a wealth of knowledge and tactical insight, especially in high-pressure situations that often define IPL matches.

Looking Forward to IPL 2025

Whether Bhuvneshwar's move to RCB will spark excitement among fans, who hope to see the franchise end their trophy drought, or not only time will tell. His partnership with other RCB bowlers, along with fellow UP pacer Yash Dayal, could add the edge needed to compete against some of the league's most formidable batting lineups.