Image: The IPL 2025 opener between KKR and RCB may be postponed due to heavy rain in Kolkata / © IPL.com
With the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) set to begin on March 22, 2025, the opening match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faces a major threat due to heavy rainfall in Kolkata. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for March 22, predicting thunderstorms, rain, and strong winds, raising the chances of the match getting washed out. Rain is expected from March 21 to 24, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 34°C.
Notably, both teams will have new captains — Rajat Patidar for RCB and Ajinkya Rahane for KKR. The grand opening ceremony at Eden Gardens will mark Kolkata’s first since 2015, featuring performances by Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and Disha Patani. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is also expected to attend the cultural spectacle.