We are ready for the IPL 2025 as the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders are ready to begin the new IPL season by hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the first game of the season at Eden Gardens in Kolkata this Saturday (March 22). However, the unpleasant weather forecast has raised tension among the cricket fans. 

The IPL 2025 opener will be the evening match as it has been scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM local time. The KKR vs RCB fixture is set to kick off the tournament on a high note, while the popular celebrities are ready for the opening ceremony of the IPL 2025. Fans are also excited to experience the IPL 2025 opener in a memorable way. 

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IPL 2025: KKR vs RCB - IMD has issued "Orange Alert"

However, the rain forecast can affect the exciting IPL 2025 opener. The Indian Met Department (IMD) has issued an "orange alert" for Kolkata which can be extended till Saturday, March 22. There is a likely threat of light or moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.

After some heat weather in recent weeks, while the temperatures moved to uncomfortable situations, Kolkata and its nearby are facing little rainy moments in the ongoing week that have dropped the temperatures significantly. 

Recently, the KKR intra-squad match couldn't end due to short rain, as the second innings wasn't possible. Although Kolkata experienced little rain, both KKR and RCB managed to complete their practice sessions. 

Minimum five overs in both innings for any result

While the match time can be extended for an hour, both teams must have to play five overs each to bring a result of a match. In case of the no result or the match abandoned, both teams will earn one point each. However, none of the cricket fans want to start an IPL season with a rain-affected game, especially to experience a match abandoned without a ball being bowled.  

One of the good news is that Eden Gardens has a strong drainage system as little rain can't affect a T20 cricket strongly.