Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has proven to be a significant success. Initially surprised by RCB’s decision to acquire him for Rs 10.75 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, the veteran fast bowler quickly became an integral part of the team. His contributions were pivotal in securing consecutive titles for RCB in 2025 and 2026. Notably, during the 2026 season, Kumar excelled on the field, claiming 28 wickets, further solidifying his reputation as a key player.
Bhuvneshwar was not sitting at home watching the auction when his name went under the hammer. He was captaining Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and his attention was split between the match and developments in the auction room.
Despite the franchise carrying the weight of a 17 year wait before its first IPL title, Bhuvneshwar said the environment inside the team was not dominated by pressure. Because of their budget and team dynamics, sRH, however, could not complete a deal. SRH wanted me, but due to dynamics and budget, they could not get me,” Bhuvneshwar revealed, in an interview with Jatin Sapru. Because two other teams were bidding earlier, i was a bit surprised,.
He had already been told by former Sunrisers Hyderabad coach Daniel Vettori that there was interest in his services. “When the auction happened on the first day, I was told by (SRH coach) Daniel Vettori that a few teams were waiting for me. “Someone came in after a few overs and told me that RCB had picked me. But I got messages from the team, and I was happy to be part of a team with such a big fanbase,” he said.
Bhuvneshwar only learned that RCB had secured his services after he had already left to focus on the match. The move reunited Bhuvneshwar with RCB, where he had begun his IPL journey. His first stint was brief, with just one appearance for the franchise in the Champions League T20.
