Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are all set to launch their IPL 2025 season with a thrilling opening match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 22, 2025. As the defending champions, KKR, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, are visibly eager to kick off their campaign at Eden Gardens, a venue that has become synonymous with cricketing glories.
Before this highly anticipated clash, Shah Rukh Khan delivered an inspiring pep talk to the KKR squad, where he specifically welcomed the new captain Ajinkya Rahane, who takes over after Shreyas Iyer was sold during the recent mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In a video shared on KKR’s official social media, Khan can be seen addressing the players and staff, imparting words of encouragement. He told them to stay healthy and happy, and expressed gratitude towards their coach, Chandrakant Pandit, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and dedication.
“Thank you, Ajinkya, for joining us and being our captain. God bless you, and I hope you will find a good home here,” Khan said, reflecting his enthusiasm for Rahane’s leadership. The camaraderie within the team appears strong, and the energy is palpable as KKR prepares to defend their title.
As excitement builds, current weather forecasts indicate that rain could play a part in the opening match. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), an Orange Alert has been issued for the region, predicting thunderstorms and rain in South Bengal, including Kolkata, on the day of the match. The temperature is expected to reach highs of 30°C, with chances of rain creating suspense for both the teams and fans.
The match, set to begin at 7:30 PM IST, follows an elaborate opening ceremony starting at 6 PM, promising a night filled with entertainment. This year’s ceremony will feature performances from popular artists like Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and Disha Patani, with Khan also slated to deliver a special monologue, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
It’s worth noting that Rajat Patidar leads the RCB team, which includes renowned cricketer Virat Kohli. As KKR prepares to face RCB, fans are expecting an epic showdown that could influence the course of the season early on.
The opening game is crucial not just for establishing momentum in the league but also for setting the stage for Rahane as he steps into the shoes of a notable captaincy role, all while keeping Shah Rukh Khan's optimistic spirit alive among the squad. As match day approaches, both KKR and RCB have finalized their strategies, building the thrill for the audience who are eager for a blockbuster start to IPL 2025.
Fans who are unable to attend the match can follow the action live through streaming services, ensuring that excitement can be enjoyed from anywhere.
