The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is here, and what better way to start than with a thrilling clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)! On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Eden Gardens in Kolkata will light up as KKR take on RCB in the tournament’s inaugural match. Cricket fans, get ready—this is going to be a cracker!
At IPL Star, we’ve got everything you need to know about this KKR vs RCB showdown: match preview, pitch conditions, weather updates, probable playing 11, full squads, fantasy cricket tips, Dream11 predictions, win predictions, head-to-head stats, key players to watch, and all the practical details like match timings, venue, live streaming, and ticket info. Whether you’re cheering for KKR’s title defense or hoping RCB finally grabs glory, we’ve got you covered. Let’s jump in!
KKR vs RCB Match Preview: A Blockbuster Start to IPL 2025
The IPL 2025 season kicks off with a bang as KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, face off against Rajat Patidar’s RCB. KKR are riding high after their IPL 2024 triumph, boasting a squad packed with stars like Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock, and Andre Russell. They’ll be eager to kick off their title defense with a win in front of their passionate Eden Gardens crowd.
RCB, on the other hand, are desperate to shed their “nearly men” tag. With Virat Kohli returning to T20 action after his World Cup heroics, alongside new faces like Phil Salt and Liam Livingstone, they’ve got the firepower to challenge anyone. Both teams underwent major revamps after the 2025 mega auction, making this opener a fresh battle of strategies and talent.
Will KKR’s home advantage and winning momentum prevail, or can RCB spoil the party? This match isn’t just about the first two points—it’s about setting the tone for the entire season!
Eden Gardens Pitch Report: A Batting Feast Awaits
Eden Gardens is a dream venue for batsmen, and today’s pitch should live up to that reputation. Known for its flat surface and consistent bounce, it’s perfect for stroke-makers to shine. Last season, we saw totals like 261/6 here (KKR vs PBKS), so expect a high-scoring affair—possibly 200+ if the top order fires.
That said, it’s not all bad news for bowlers. Early on, pacers might get some swing, while spinners like Varun Chakravarthy could find grip as the ball wears. Teams chasing have won 8 out of 13 T20s at this venue historically, hinting that the toss winner might opt to bowl first, especially with dew likely in the evening. Get ready for a run-fest with a twist!
Weather Update: Rain Could Play Spoilsport
Kolkata’s weather on March 22, 2025, might keep fans on edge. AccuWeather predicts cloudy skies with a temperature around 23°C during the match, but there’s a 67% chance of rain and thunderstorms earlier in the day. By 7:30 PM IST, the rain chance drops to 25%, but gusty winds and high humidity (67%) could still affect play.
If rain delays the start, we might see a shortened game, but a full washout seems unlikely. The Eden Gardens ground staff are pros at handling such conditions, so fingers crossed for a full 40 overs. Stay tuned to IPL Star for live weather updates!
Probable Playing 11: KKR vs RCB Lineups
Here’s how both teams might line up, based on the reference article and team balance:
KKR Probable Playing 11
- Batting First: Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock (wk), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Anrich Nortje
- Bowling First: Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Anrich Nortje, Varun Chakravarthy
- Impact Player Options: Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Varun Chakravarthy, Anukul Roy
RCB Probable Playing 11
- Batting First: Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal
- Bowling First: Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Rasikh Salam
- Impact Player Options: Rasikh Salam, Devdutt Padikkal, Suyash Sharma
These lineups mix experience with flair, giving both sides flexibility to adapt.
Full Squads: KKR and RCB Rosters
Kolkata Knight Riders Full Squad
Ajinkya Rahane (c), Rinku Singh, Quinton de Kock (wk), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh, Andre Russell, Anrich Nortje, Harshit Rana, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Mayank Markande, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Spencer Johnson, Luvnith Sisodia, Anukul Roy, Moeen Ali.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Full Squad
Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Salam, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee.
Both teams have depth, with KKR leaning on all-rounders and RCB banking on their batting might.
Fantasy Cricket Tips & Dream11 Predictions
Fantasy cricket fans, this match is your chance to shine! Here’s how to build a winning Dream11 team:
Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Wicketkeepers: Quinton de Kock and Phil Salt are safe bets. Both open and can rack up runs quickly.
- Batsmen: Virat Kohli (a must-pick) and Venkatesh Iyer are in top form. Rajat Patidar’s captaincy role adds value.
- All-rounders: Sunil Narine and Andre Russell are game-changers. Liam Livingstone’s explosiveness makes him a wildcard.
- Bowlers: Varun Chakravarthy’s spin and Josh Hazlewood’s precision are key on this pitch.
Dream11 Prediction Team
- Wicketkeepers: Quinton de Kock, Phil Salt
- Batsmen: Virat Kohli (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar
- All-rounders: Sunil Narine (vc), Andre Russell, Liam Livingstone
- Bowlers: Varun Chakravarthy, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Captain: Virat Kohli (expect a big knock)
- Vice-Captain: Sunil Narine (all-round impact)
This team is tailored for Eden Gardens’ batting-friendly conditions, balancing top picks with differentials.
Win Prediction: Who’ll Take the Opener?
KKR have the edge here. Their 20-14 head-to-head lead over RCB, home advantage, and title-winning form make them favorites. Experts at CricTracker give KKR a slight nod, predicting a win if they chase a 200-210 total. RCB could counter with a 210-220 score if they bowl first, but their Eden Gardens struggles (4 wins in 16 games) tilt the scales.
We’re calling it: KKR has a 60% chance of winning, but RCB’s firepower means it’s no cakewalk. Rain could level the playing field if it shortens the game.
Head-to-Head Records: KKR Dominate RCB
- Matches Played: 34
- KKR Wins: 20
- RCB Wins: 14
- Last 5 Meetings: KKR 4, RCB 1 (RCB’s last win: IPL 2022)
KKR have owned this rivalry lately, especially at Eden Gardens, where RCB have struggled. Can Patidar’s men rewrite history?
Key Stats to Know
- Highest Total at Eden Gardens: 261/6 (KKR vs PBKS, 2024)
- KKR vs RCB Top Scorer: Virat Kohli (863 runs)
- KKR vs RCB Top Wicket-Taker: Sunil Narine (25 wickets)
- Chasing Record at Venue: 8 wins in 13 T20s
These stats scream big scores and tight chases—perfect for an IPL opener!
Key Players to Watch
- Sunil Narine (KKR): IPL 2024’s MVP with 488 runs and 17 wickets. He’s a one-man army.
- Virat Kohli (RCB): Back in T20s, he’s chasing 1000 runs vs KKR (currently 863). Expect fireworks.
- Andre Russell (KKR): His power-hitting and handy bowling can turn games.
- Varun Chakravarthy (KKR): Fresh from the Champions Trophy, he’s a spin wizard at Eden.
- Liam Livingstone (RCB): A big-hitter who could steal the show.
Match Timings, Venue, and Viewing Details
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT)
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Live Telecast: Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1, 1 HD, etc.)
- Live Streaming: JioCinema app/website (free for Jio users) https://www.hotstar.com/in/home?ref=%2Fin
- Tickets: Available on BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, and IPL’s official site iplt20.com. Prices start at ₹500—grab yours quick!
Also Read: IPL 2025 Full Schedule https://iplstar.in/ipl-2025-full-schedule-match-list-format-venues-timings-live-streaming-teams-and-everything-you-want-to-know/
Conclusion: A Thrilling IPL 2025 Kickoff Awaits
KKR vs RCB is the dream start to IPL 2025—a clash of champions and challengers, packed with star power and drama. Will KKR’s title defense roar to life, or will RCB finally break their opener jinx? With rain looming and Eden Gardens buzzing, this match has it all.
Follow IPL Star for live updates, post-match breakdowns, and all the latest IPL 2025 news. Who’s your pick to win? Drop your thoughts below and let’s get the cricket party started!
FAQs: KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 Opener
1. When and where is the KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 opener happening?
The IPL 2025 opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST. It will take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the home ground of KKR.
2. What’s the weather forecast for the KKR vs RCB match on March 22, 2025?
Kolkata’s weather on March 22, 2025, shows a 25% chance of rain during the match, with cloudy skies and a temperature around 23°C. An orange alert earlier in the day warns of possible thunderstorms, so rain could disrupt play—stay updated with IPL Star!
3. Who are the predicted playing 11 for KKR vs RCB in the IPL 2025 opener?
For KKR: Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Anrich Nortje, Varun Chakravarthy (Impact: Angkrish Raghuvanshi).
For RCB: Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Rasikh Salam (Impact: Devdutt Padikkal). Check the article for details!
4. How does the Eden Gardens pitch behave for the KKR vs RCB match?
Eden Gardens is a batting-friendly pitch with true bounce, ideal for big scores—think 200+. Pacers get early swing, and spinners like Varun Chakravarthy could shine later. Teams chasing have won 8 of 13 T20s here, so bowling first might be key.
5. What’s the best Dream11 prediction for KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 opener?
Our Dream11 pick: Quinton de Kock, Phil Salt (wk); Virat Kohli (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar (batsmen); Sunil Narine (vc), Andre Russell, Liam Livingstone (all-rounders); Varun Chakravarthy, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (bowlers). Perfect for Eden’s conditions!
6. Who are the key players to watch in the KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 match?
Watch out for Sunil Narine (KKR’s all-round star), Virat Kohli (RCB’s run-machine), Andre Russell (KKR’s game-changer), Varun Chakravarthy (KKR’s spin wizard), and Liam Livingstone (RCB’s big-hitter). They could decide the game!
7. What’s the head-to-head record between KKR and RCB in IPL history?
KKR lead RCB 20-14 in 34 IPL matches. At Eden Gardens, KKR dominate with 8 wins in 12 games. Their recent form (4 wins in last 5) makes them favorites for the 2025 opener.
8. Where can I watch the KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 opener live?
Catch the live telecast on Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1, 1 HD, etc.) or stream it free on JioCinema app/website (for Jio users). Don’t miss the action starting at 7:30 PM IST on March 22, 2025!
9. How can I buy tickets for the KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 match at Eden Gardens?
Tickets are available online via BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, or the IPL official website, starting at ₹500. Offline, visit Eden Gardens counters. Hurry—seats are selling fast for this blockbuster opener!
10. Who is likely to win the KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 opener?
KKR have a 60% chance of winning, thanks to their home advantage, strong spin attack, and 20-14 head-to-head edge. RCB’s batting firepower, led by Kohli, could upset the odds if they click. It’s a close call!
11. What are the full squads for KKR and RCB in IPL 2025?
KKR: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Varun Chakravarthy, and more.
RCB: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. Full lists are in the article!
12. Why is the KKR vs RCB match a big deal for IPL 2025?
It’s the season opener, pitting defending champs KKR against title-hungry RCB. With new captains (Rahane vs Patidar), Kohli’s T20 return, and Eden’s electric vibe, it’s a rivalry-packed curtain-raiser you can’t miss!
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.