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20 March 2025

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Set To Start IPL 2025 Season

With Virat Kohli leading the charge, RCB aims for first trophy amid travel challenges and fan engagement.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is just around the corner, and fans of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are buzzing with excitement. RCB will kick off their season with a match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata on March 22, 2025. As anticipation builds, RCB fans are eager to secure their tickets for the home matches held at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Starting March 19, 2025, fans can reserve their home match tickets on the RCB website, with early access for Navi UPI users beginning a full day earlier on March 18, 2025. This initiative allows these users to grab the best seats before the ticket sales open to the general public.

RCB’s home match schedule promises thrilling cricket, with notable games including:

DateMatchVenueMarch 28, 2025RCB vs. Chennai Super KingsM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruApril 2, 2025RCB vs. Gujarat TitansM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruApril 10, 2025RCB vs. Delhi CapitalsM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruApril 18, 2025RCB vs. Punjab KingsM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruApril 24, 2025RCB vs. Rajasthan RoyalsM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruMay 3, 2025RCB vs. Chennai Super KingsM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruMay 13, 2025RCB vs. Sunrisers HyderabadM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, BengaluruMay 17, 2025RCB vs. Kolkata Knight RidersM.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

More than just matches, RCB entered IPL history when they signed Virat Kohli back in March 2008, capitalizing on the Delhi Daredevils’ (now Delhi Capitals) decision not to draft the young star. Today, Kohli, now 36 years old, has played 17 seasons with RCB and has become a cricketing icon. As the IPL approaches its 18th edition, Kohli’s journey continues as he plays under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, while also reinforcing that RCB will be his only IPL franchise.

Despite the change in leadership, Kohli remains a pivotal figure in the RCB setup. He has expressed his commitment to support Patidar, stating, “A lot of people find it very difficult to process how competitiveness remains at the same level if the aggression does not.” Kohli’s experience and spirit will be vital as RCB strives for their first IPL title, having reached the finals three times without clinching the coveted trophy.

The RCB fanbase adds to the excitement. Their unwavering enthusiasm was palpable as around 25,000 supporters attended warm-up sessions at Chinnaswamy Stadium, showcasing their loyalty and passion for the team. Their cheers create an electrifying atmosphere that the players deeply appreciate.

In terms of logistics, IPL 2025 brings its own challenges. Each franchise will play 14 matches—seven at home and seven away. RCB will face the most demanding travel schedule, covering a staggering 17,084 kilometers during the league stage. This will exceed distances for rivals like the Chennai Super Kings, who will travel 16,184 kilometers, while the least traveled team, Sunrisers Hyderabad, will cover 8,536 kilometers.

As teams navigate extensive travel, it is essential for management to plan recovery sessions and ensure mental resilience among players. As noted by Delhi Capitals’ wicketkeeper-batter Abhishek Porel, maintaining a positive mindset towards travel is crucial. “This is all mental. If you enjoy it, you'd consider it a daily routine,” he shared, emphasizing the love of the game as the driving force.

Meanwhile, RCB has partnered with the respected Japanese watch brand SEIKO for this IPL season. This collaboration will not only highlight key moments throughout the T20 season but will also enrich fan experiences, further enhancing RCB’s connection with their supporters. SEIKO's president and COO, Niladri Mazumder, noted the synergy between the brand's values and those of RCB, stating, “Our partnership with them is a natural extension of our commitment to excellence.”

With the IPL 2025 season about to unfold, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are positioned to harness their passionate fanbase, continue their pursuit of a maiden championship, and tackle the logistical challenges that await. With Kohli's dedication, RCB's dynamic gameplay, and the unwavering support of their fans, there’s no doubt this season will be one to remember.