KKR vs RCB: Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar Missed the IPL 2025 Opener in Kolkata?

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KKR vs RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) pace attack faced a setback as experienced seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar missed the IPL 2025 season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens.

The absence of the veteran pacer, who rejoined RCB after 15 years for ₹10.75 crore, surprised fans and experts alike. RCB's decision to exclude Bhuvneshwar from their playing XI led to speculation.

However, the franchise clarified his absence just after the toss. "We go with two spinners and three pacers. Salt, Liam, Tim, and Hazlewood fill the overseas quota! Unfortunately, Bhuvi misses out due to a minor injury. He'll be back soon," RCB posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Earlier, RCB's stand-in captain Rajat Patidar, who took over the leadership duties for the match, won the toss and opted to bowl first. "The pitch looks hard. Amazing to lead RCB and a great opportunity to learn from the great players. We have done proper preparations for the last 10-15 days," he said during the toss.

In Bhuvneshwar's absence, RCB fielded Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam Dar, and Yash Dayal as their primary pacers for the match. Bhuvneshwar's omission from the RCB squad left fans disappointed, with many expressing frustration on social media. Some questioned the team's decision-making, while others blamed RCB's history of missing key opportunities in crucial moments.

One user on X wrote: "One of the most successful bowlers of IPL, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, not playing. Reason I started hating RCB. 0 trophy aise hi nhi hai."

Another fan asked: "Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar is not playing today's game?"

Despite the setback, RCB reassured supporters that Bhuvneshwar's injury was minor and that he was expected to return soon. With his vast IPL experience, the franchise will be eager to see him back in action as they push for their maiden IPL title.