IPL 2025: KKR vs RCB to Kick-Off Season with Exciting Clash at Eden Gardens

The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) promises thrilling action as defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener.

IPL 2025 Opening Match and Key Fixtures

The IPL 2025 season is all set to begin with an explosive clash between Kolkata Knight Riders, the defending champions, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 22. Fans can look forward to an exciting contest as these two powerhouses take the field in the season opener.

Eden Gardens will also host the grand finale of the season on May 25, alongside Qualifier 2 on May 23. In contrast, Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator will take place in Hyderabad, home ground of the 2024 IPL runners-up, Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Thrilling Play-Offs and Home Ground Advantage

The IPL 2025 season will feature 74 matches over 65 action-packed days. The schedule includes 12 double-headers, and matches will be held in 13 cities across India, with Visakhapatnam, Guwahati, and Dharamsala joining the regular 10 host cities.

While the afternoon matches will start at 03:30 PM IST, evening games will kick off at 07:30 PM IST. The league will be full of excitement as some of the biggest names in cricket battle for supremacy.

Team Groupings for IPL 2025

In Group 1, we’ll see the likes of KKR, RCB, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Punjab Kings. Group 2 will include Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Lucknow Super Giants.

Key Fixtures in the Early Stages

• March 23: Sunrisers Hyderabad will take on Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. That evening, the famous rivalry between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians will ignite at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
• March 24: Delhi Capitals will face Lucknow Super Giants in Visakhapatnam, while Gujarat Titans will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad on March 25.

Exciting New Leaderships

There have been a few leadership changes across teams ahead of IPL 2025. RCB recently announced Rajat Patidar as their new captain. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer will lead Punjab Kings and Rishabh Pant will captain Lucknow Super Giants. However, both KKR and DC are yet to reveal their new captains for the upcoming season, adding a sense of anticipation for fans.

Host Cities and New Home Grounds

This year, new cities will witness IPL action, with Visakhapatnam and Guwahati hosting home matches for Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, respectively. Punjab Kings will play their three home games in Dharamsala, while KKR and DC will have their home grounds unchanged.

Get Ready for an Action-Packed IPL 2025

As the countdown to IPL 2025 begins, fans can expect a season filled with drama, thrilling moments, and fierce competition. With new leadership, fresh rivalries, and a packed schedule across multiple cities, the excitement is palpable. Mark your calendars and get ready for another unforgettable IPL season!

Who are you rooting for in IPL 2025? Share your thoughts and stay tuned for more updates on your favorite teams and players!