The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season is set to kick off with a blockbuster opening match between the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and the formidable Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting this clash, which promises high-octane action, star-studded line-ups, and the electrifying atmosphere that the IPL is renowned for.
Match Details
- Fixture: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Date: March 22, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM IST
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Team Overviews
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR enters this season with the confidence of defending champions. The team has undergone strategic changes, notably appointing veteran batter Ajinkya Rahane as the new captain, succeeding Shreyas Iyer, who has moved to Punjab Kings. Rahane’s leadership experience, including leading India to a Test series victory in Australia, brings a wealth of knowledge and calmness to the squad.
Key Players:
- Ajinkya Rahane (Captain): His tactical acumen and batting prowess will be pivotal.
- Venkatesh Iyer (Vice-Captain): A dynamic all-rounder capable of influencing the game with both bat and ball.
- Andre Russell: The explosive all-rounder known for his game-changing abilities.
- Sunil Narine: A seasoned spinner who adds depth to the bowling attack.
- Quinton de Kock: A reliable wicketkeeper-batsman expected to provide solid starts.
Squad:
- Ajinkya Rahane (C)
- Venkatesh Iyer (VC)
- Andre Russell
- Sunil Narine
- Quinton de Kock
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Harshit Rana
- Ramandeep Singh
- Angkrish Raghuvanshi
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Mayank Markande
- Anrich Nortje
- Vaibhav Arora
- Rovman Powell
- Spencer Johnson
- Manish Pandey
- Luvnith Sisodia
- Anukul Roy
- Moeen Ali
- Chetan Sakariya
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB, a team with a massive fan base, is on a quest for their maiden IPL title. This season, they have appointed Rajat Patidar as the new captain, taking over from Faf du Plessis. The team boasts a balanced mix of experienced internationals and young talents, aiming to break their title drought.
Key Players:
- Virat Kohli: The batting maestro whose performances are crucial at the top order.
- Phil Salt: An aggressive opener known for his quick scoring.
- Liam Livingstone: A versatile batsman capable of turning games around.
- Josh Hazlewood: A spearhead in the bowling attack with his pace and accuracy.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar: His swing bowling can be lethal, especially in favorable conditions.
Squad:
- Rajat Patidar (C)
- Virat Kohli
- Yash Dayal
- Phil Salt
- Jitesh Sharma
- Liam Livingstone
- Josh Hazlewood
- Rasikh Dar
- Suyash Sharma
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Krunal Pandya
- Swapnil Singh
- Tim David
- Romario Shepherd
- Nuwan Thushara
- Jacob Bethell
- Manoj Bhandage
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Swastik Chhikara
- Lungi Ngidi
- Abhinandan Singh
- Mohit Rathee
Predicted Playing XI
Predicting the exact playing XI can be challenging due to last-minute strategies and player fitness. However, based on current form and team composition, here’s a probable lineup for both teams:
Kolkata Knight Riders:
- Quinton de Kock (WK)
- Venkatesh Iyer
- Ajinkya Rahane (C)
- Andre Russell
- Sunil Narine
- Manish Pandey
- Moeen Ali
- Varun Chakaravarthy
- Anrich Nortje
- Chetan Sakariya
- Mayank Markande
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
- Phil Salt
- Virat Kohli
- Rajat Patidar (C)
- Liam Livingstone
- Devdutt Padikkal
- Tim David
- Jitesh Sharma (WK)
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Lungi Ngidi
- Krunal Pandya
Key Battles to Watch
- Virat Kohli vs. Sunil Narine: Kohli’s proficiency against spin will be tested by Narine’s guile and variations.
- Phil Salt vs. Anrich Nortje: An exciting contest between an aggressive opener and a fiery fast bowler.
- Andre Russell vs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Russell’s power-hitting against Bhuvneshwar’s swing bowling could be a game-defining duel.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, KKR has had the upper hand over RCB. Out of 34 encounters, KKR has emerged victorious 20 times, while RCB has won 14 matches. The most recent clash saw KKR clinch a thrilling one-run victory at Eden Gardens.
Toss and Match Timing
The toss is scheduled for 7:00 PM IST, 30 minutes before the match begins at 7:30 PM IST. The outcome of the toss could significantly influence the match, especially considering the pitch and weather conditions at Eden Gardens.
Weather Forecast
 12 AM | 76° | Clear |
| 1 AM | 76° | Clear |
| 2 AM | 75° | Clear |
| 3 AM | 74° | Clear |
| 4 AM | 73° | Clear |
| 5 AM | 73° | Clear |
| 6 AM | 72° | Clear |
 7 AM | 71° | Sunny |
| Show more |
Live Streaming and Telecast Details
Fans can catch the live action through various platforms:
- Television: The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network, available in multiple languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, and Telugu.
- Online Streaming: The merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar has introduced new streaming options. Jio users with a recharge of ₹299 or more can access the JioHotstar subscription for free, allowing them to stream IPL matches live. Alternatively, a standalone subscription is available for ₹149.