Three-time champions KKR take on perennial underachievers RCB in the opener of IPL 2025
The IPL 2025 season kicks off at Eden Gardens on Saturday evening with a blockbuster clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore, reigniting a rivalry that dates back to the league’s inception. Seventeen years ago, Brendon McCullum’s iconic 158 set the stage for the IPL’s legacy, but since then, KKR have claimed three titles, while RCB continue their pursuit of an elusive crown.
Under Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership, KKR will look to break their post-title slump and start strong. Key to their plans will be Varun Chakravarthy, India’s Champions Trophy hero, as he faces Virat Kohli, who has worked extensively to counter spin. Sunil Narine, still a crucial asset at 36, will be expected to contribute both with the ball and at the top of the order in the absence of Phil Salt, who has moved to RCB.
RCB, boasting an explosive top order of Salt and Kohli, along with finishers Jitesh Sharma and Liam Livingstone, look dangerous. However, their bowling, weakened by Mohammed Siraj’s departure, will rely on experienced campaigners Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood to exploit Eden’s spin-friendly conditions.
