IPL is the most popular cricket league in the world started back in 2007, Twenty20 cricket league in India organised by the Board of Cricket Control in India. The league features ten franchise teams based on state/city. Every year it’s held between March and May.
Season Kick off:
18th season of Indian Premier League(IPL) is to be kicked off from today, March 22, 2025, where defending champion, Kolkata Knight Riders will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (KKR Vs RCB) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Match to start from local time 7:30pm (IST).
Match Stats:
As of now, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have played with each other 34 times in IPL history. Out of these encounters:
- Kolkata Knight Riders have won 20 matches.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru have won 14 matches
Both share most exciting rivalry in IPL history, with numerous thrilling performances and memorable moments
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have won three IPL trophies including last year (2012, 2014, and 2024), making them 3rd most successful teams in the league after Mumbai Indians and Chennai Superkings
Whereas, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), despite having a strong team with star players in all seasons, yet to win an IPL trophy. Though, they have reached the finals three times (2009, 2011, and 2016)
New Captains for Both Teams:
This year both teams have appointed new captains:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Ajinkya Rahane, who brings his extensive experience and calm leadership skills to the team
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Rajat Patidar, a young talent, stepping into the leadership role for the first time this season
Top Players to Watch Out in Both Teams:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Sunil Narine: A seasoned all-rounder, Narine’s mystery spin and explosive batting make him a key asset for KKR.
- Andre Russell: Known for his power-hitting and ability to turn games around, Russell remains a match-winner.
- Varun Chakravarthy: A reliable spinner with impressive control and variations, crucial for KKR’s bowling attack.
- Venkatesh Iyer: A dynamic player who can contribute with both bat and ball, adding depth to the team.
- Quinton de Kock: A new addition to KKR, his wicketkeeping and opening batting skills will be pivotal.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Virat Kohli: The backbone of RCB’s batting line-up, Kohli’s consistency and experience are unmatched.
- Phil Salt: An aggressive opener who can set the tone for RCB’s innings.
- Liam Livingstone: A versatile all-rounder capable of explosive batting and handy bowling.
- Josh Hazlewood: A seasoned pacer who brings stability and leadership to RCB’s bowling attack.
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Known for his swing bowling and death-over expertise, a key player for RCB.
These players are expected to shine in the high-voltage clash at Eden Gardens. Which team are you rooting for?
About the Ground and Ground Conditions:
The historical Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with current seating capacity of 66,000 is ready to host all home matches for the Kolkata Knight Riders. Be ready to see a full house in all matches here.
This season the pitch at Eden Gardens is expected to be batting-friendly, will offer a flat surface with true bounce, making it ideal for stroke play. The average first-innings score here in T20 matches is around 163-169 runs, and teams chasing have often had an advantage due to the dew factor
However, the weather might play a role in today’s match between KKR and RCB. There’s a high chance of rain. If it drizzles, this could assist seamers early on, especially during the powerplay overs. Spinners like Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy might also find some grip if the conditions favour turn