The IPL 2025 season is ready to begin with a high-voltage match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). But just before the big game, heavy rain has arrived in Kolkata, and the ground at Eden Gardens is already covered. This unexpected weather has left fans worried — will the first match even happen?
IPL 2025 Opener Match: KKR vs RCB
Defending champions KKR will start their IPL 2025 journey at home. The team will play their first match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where fans are ready to cheer loud and proud. Starting the season on their own ground gives Kolkata Knight Riders a strong boost, as they know the pitch well and have huge support from the crowd.
| Match | Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Match 1, IPL 2025 |
| Venue | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| Date & Time | Saturday, March 22, 2025, 7:30 PM (IST) |
| Live Broadcast and Streaming Details | Sports18/Star Sports Network, JioHotstar (app & website) |
Rain Threatens IPL 2025 Opener
The first match of the season might face a major setback. Weather reports suggest an 80% chance of rain on Saturday, March 22, the match day. An Orange Alert has also been issued in the city, which signals possible heavy rainfall. If the forecast turns out to be true, the entire match might get washed out, and that would be a big disappointment for all cricket lovers.
Eden Gardens’ Strong Drainage Offers Some Hope
Despite the gloomy forecast, there’s still a ray of hope. Eden Gardens is well-known for its excellent drainage system. Over the years, the stadium has handled rain delays quite well. The ground is usually fully covered whenever it rains, which helps protect the pitch and outfield. In a recent video shared online, the ground staff was seen quickly putting on covers as soon as it started raining. That means, if the rain stops in time, there’s still a chance for a shortened match.
New Captains for KKR and RCB
This season also brings fresh leadership for both teams. Ajinkya Rahane has taken over as captain of KKR, while Rajat Patidar has been appointed as the new RCB captain. This change in leadership has raised excitement among fans, who are eager to see how the teams perform under their new captains.
Fans Hoping for At Least a Short Game
Over the years, matches between KKR and RCB have always been thrilling and intense. With a history of fierce battles, both sets of fans are eagerly waiting for this face-off. Even if the full game isn’t possible, supporters are still hoping for at least a shortened match so they can enjoy the return of IPL action.
Final Thoughts
The rain has definitely added a twist before the start of IPL 2025, but the hope is still alive. All eyes are now on the weather in Kolkata. Will the rain stop in time? Will we get to see the two new captains in action? Cricket fans across the country are waiting with crossed fingers for the skies to clear and the IPL opener to begin as planned.
