IPL 2025: Prithvi Shaw to Dilshan Madushanka - 4 Players RCB can Sign to replace Overseas Stars for Final Phase

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru are facing a major setback ahead of the final stretch of IPL 2025, with three players reportedly set to miss the remainder of the season.

These absences come at a critical juncture as RCB push for a top-two finish and their maiden title. As the IPL 2025 resumes after a week's hiatus, the Bengaluru outfit will play Kolkata Knight Riders in the first match on Saturday (May 17).

Top-order batter Devdutt Padikkal has been ruled out due to a right hamstring injury. The left-hander had contributed 247 runs this season at a strike rate of 150.61, providing strong starts at the top. RCB have drafted in Mayank Agarwal as his replacement to maintain balance in the batting unit, who is also eligible for retention ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

Three Overseas Players Likely Not to Return for RCB

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is unlikely to return to India. Having missed recent matches with a shoulder concern, he has also been named in Australia's squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship final in June. Young English all-rounder Jacob Bethell will miss the playoffs as he has been called up for England's ODI series against the West Indies starting later this month.

IPL 2025: 3 Players who RCB can Sign for the Final Part

William O'Rourke

William O'Rourke can be a replacement for Josh Hazlewood for RCB in the final part of the season. The New Zealand pacer has been a sensation across all formats and was excellent in the recent India Tour last year, where the Kiwis won the series 3-0. His pace and accuracy can be a big weapon for RCB going forward, which may prompt the franchise to sign him.

Salman Nizar

Salman Nizar can be a perfect addition for RCB. The Kerala batter has been a top performer for his state in domestic cricket and was also called up for a trial by Chennai Super Kings. Nizar's ability to bat in the middle-order and prowess as a finisher makes him a compelling choice for the Bengaluru outfit.

Dilshan Madushanka

Dilshan Madushanka is an ideal replacement for RCB in IPL 2025 due to his left-arm pace, which adds variety to the bowling attack. With 45 wickets in 26 ODIs at an average of 25.15, he has demonstrated the ability to take crucial wickets. His capacity to swing the ball in the powerplay and deliver yorkers at the death makes him a versatile option.

Prithvi Shaw

With their opening option, Jacob Bethell out of the picture, RCB can turn their eyes for Prithvi Shaw. The Mumbai batter has been left out of IPL 2025 due to fitness issues, but a move to RCB can be a perfect opportunity for revival. His past IPL experience can be a big boost for Shaw, and a move to Bengaluru materialising can do wonders for both the player and the franchise.

Although RCB can rope in players for the final part of the IPL 2025 season, none of their replacements will be eligible for retention for next season.