The IPL 2025 is set to kick off again on May 17 after a pause because of the tensions at the India-Pakistan border. The first game back will be between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. This match is crucial for RCB since winning it will secure them a spot in the playoffs. Unfortunately, they’re going to miss their captain, Rajat Patidar, who is likely sidelined due to a finger injury he picked up while playing against Chennai Super Kings.
Reports suggest that he’ll need some time to heal, and it’s also looking like he won’t be part of the India A team for the upcoming unofficial Test series against England Lions, leading up to India’s Test series against England.
RCB was supposed to play Lucknow Super Giants right before the suspension, and Patidar was already going to miss that match. Wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma stepped in as captain for that one. As for the game against KKR, there’s still no word on whether Patidar will be good to go, so it’ll be interesting to see who takes over the captaincy if he can’t play.
RCB has more injury woes to deal with too. Their Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is nursing a shoulder issue and is likely out for the rest of the tournament. He had been trying to get back into form after dealing with several injuries earlier in the year, and was using the IPL to regain his rhythm. On top of that, he’s been picked for Australia’s squad for the World Test Championship final against South Africa in June at Lord’s in London.
