We are ready for the IPL 2025 as Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (KKR vs RCB) will face each other in the tournament opener on Saturday (March 22) evening at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. However, the weather forecast is a big concern for the cricket fans. 

IPL 2025 opener set with grand opening ceremony before the KKR vs RCB match

Defending champions KKR is ready to host RCB in the first game of the IPL 2025. This match has been scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM local time. Before the match, there is also a grand opening ceremony where the KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan will start the ceremony, and the Bollywood singer Shreya Ghosal, Bollywood actress Disha Patani, and Punjabi singer Karan Aujla will also perform along with a state-of-the-art Anamorphic Projection between 6:10 PM and almost 6:45 PM. Just before the toss, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials and captains will officially start the tournament following a celebration, fireworks, and photo shoot. 

See Also: IPL 18 Opening Ceremony: A Grand Celebration Minute by Minute

Orange alert for the IPL 2025 opener

All the plans are set, but the rain forecast is threatening all the plans for the IPL 2025 opener. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued an "orange alert" for Friday and Saturday (March 21 and 22) in several districts of West Bengal, including Kolkata. There is a threat of thunder squalls, gusty winds, lightning, hail, and moderate rainfall. 

Kolkata has been experiencing light and moderate rainfall since Friday

Kolkata experienced light and moderate rainfall on Friday, and also early Saturday. Although the present moment sees a good sunny condition, the weather forecast suggests a significant light to moderate rain threat on Saturday evening in Kolkata, mostly between 6 PM and 10 PM. 

Eden Garden has powerful management to fight against weather

While Eden Gardens has a strong drainage system and the strong ability to cover the stadium properly, the light to moderate rain threat isn't actually a big issue. If the weather gets clear, the stadium management doesn't take much time to make the ground available for the game. However, the rain forecast can hamper the opening ceremony plan massively.  

The league stage of the IPL can be extended for an hour. If a match can't be available to run for a minimum of five overs in each innings, it ends with no result where both teams earn one point each. 

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. 

See Also: Anil Chaudhary Steps Down As International and IPL Umpire

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. 

Kolkata Knight Riders' Home Ground - Eden Gardens in Kolkata

Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are looking for a strong season in the IPL 2025. Their iconic home venue, Eden Gardens (Kolkata), will not only host the tournament opener but also host the Qualifier 2 and Final of the tournament. 

Recent matches played by KKR at Eden Gardens

• IPL 2024 League Match: KKR vs MI - Hosts won by 18 runs
• IPL 2024 League Match: KKR vs DC - Hosts won by 7 wickets
• IPL 2024 League Match: KKR vs PBKS - Punjab Kings won by 8 wickets

Kolkata Knight Riders' IPL 2025 Home Matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata

How to Buy Tickets for KKR Matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata

(All the following information about IPL 2025 tickets is only expected. The actual information will be updated once the official statements)

Online Booking:

• Available on BookMyShow, PayTM Insider, and the KKR official website.
• Select your match, choose your seats, and make the payment.

Offline Purchase:

• Offline tickets may be available at the Eden Gardens box office and selected retail outlets.

Ticket Prices (Estimated):

• INR 750-3000 (Blocks)
• INR 5000-8000 (Club House Tiers)
• INR 8500 (B Premium)
• INR 19000-28000 (VIP-Corporate Hospitality) 

Narendra Modi Stadium

• Location: Ahmedabad, India
• Year Opened: 1982
• Capacity:132,000
• Operated by:Gujarat Cricket Association

Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world with a seating capacity of 132,000 and it is located at Ahmedabad. This stadium is well equipped with all modern amenities such as LED floodlights, 11 centre circle pitches, four changing rooms, and two nets available. These mega events can be held without any hassle due to high end drainage facilities provided in this stadium. It hosted its first event after renovation, during the 2023 ICC Cricket World cup Final of 2020.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

• Location: Melbourne, Australia
• Year Opened: 1853
• Capacity:100,024
• Operated By:Melbourne Cricket Club

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Melbourne, Australia The MCG is one of the worlds most recognise stadiums, established in 1853 with a capacity of 100,024. Established through international events 1956 Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and several ICC World Cups. On top of that, the MCG serves as home to Boxing Day Test Match & AFL (Australian Football League) where jewel-like ring of grandstands set around a retractable roof.

Eden Gardens

• Location: Kolkata, India
• Year Opened: 1864
• Capacity:66,000

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India  Edens from Kolkata is the second-biggest stadium of the nation and one of the most cherished international cricket venues. Located in 1864 Eden Gardens, Kolkata (India) 66,000 often called as "Mecca of Indian Cricket" and it is where one will host numerous historic matches such as ICC Cricket World Cup final in 1987,2016 ICC World T20 Final etc.

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium(Nava Raipur International Cricket Stadium)

• Location: Raipur, India
• Year Opened: 2008
• Capacity:65000
• Operated BY:Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh

One of India's newest stadiums Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium Raipur(H), capacity 65,000 built in the year 2008For the year it opened, It is India's 50th international cricket ground and infamously a batsmen-friendly due to boundary dimensions. It has also held many an IPL and international domestic matches.

Perth Stadium

• Location: Perth, Australia
• Year Opened: 2018
• Capacity:61,266
• Operated BY:VenuesLive

Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, has a capacity of 61,266 and is a multi-use stadium that opened its doors back in 2018. It was opened near the Fremantle Sea and is the 2nd biggest cricket stadium in Australia after the MCG and provides an incredible view with fresh breeze. It is a general sports venue that can host cricket and Australian football matches.

ALSO READ:West Indies Secure Historic 120-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Multan, Ending 35-Year Wait for Win in Pakistan

Adelaide Oval

• Location: Australia 
• Year Opened: 1871
• Capacity:53,500
• Operated By:Adelaide Oval SMA Ltd

Adelaide Oval (1871) In Adelaide, South Australia It is a multi use stadium which for cricket (mainly), Australian rules football, events such as concerts and rugby. Between 2012 and 2014 the stadium was heavily developed to increase capacity in order to allow it to host major events, from the original capacity of 42240 to over an increased neutral capacity along with modern facilities including the installation of Western Stand and pedestrian bridge over River Torrens. Having a long and eventful past, it played host to its first Test in 1884, and has been home base of the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) from the get go. Some of the recent major events, 2017 Ashes Test; world record Adele concert 70,000 and since 2019 the AFLW Grand Final.

Greenfield International Stadium

• Location: Thiruvananthapuram(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 2015
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Kerala Cricket Association

Greenfield International Stadium (The Sports Hub) is a multi-purpose stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, used for international cricket and football (soccer). It is all purpose stadium that can accommodate upto 50,000 viewers and constructed on lessee site of 36 acres by Kerala University. The stadium is green on the inner being a place that boasts of flora and a rainwater harvesting unit The first Indian stadium constructed under DBOT (design-build-operate-transfer) model 262185 On 1 November 2018, India won vs West Indies by 9 wickets in its first ODI 

Ekana Cricket Stadium(Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV))

• Location: Lucknow(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 2017
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Ekana Sportz City Pvt Ltd

Ekana Cricket Stadium, also known as Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium, is an international cricket stadium in Lucknow, India. The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000 and is the fifth-largest international cricket stadium in India. It is the home ground of the Uttar Pradesh cricket team, UP women's cricket team, and IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants. The stadium was commissioned in 2014 and was built under a public-private partnership between Ekana Sportz City and the Lucknow Development Authority. It hosted its first international match on 6 November 2018, a T20I between India and the West Indies.

JSCA International Stadium 

• Location: JharkandINDIA)
• Year Opened: 2013
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated by:Jharkhand cricket association

JSCA International Stadium is an international cricket venue in Ranchi, Jharkhand India. The venue is the home ground of Jharkhand cricket team. The stadium was opened in January 2013 and in his first ever ODI between India vs England, 19th January 2013. The stadium could hold a capacity of 50,000and has 76 Corporate boxes. The stadium is designed so that no shadow ever falls on the nine pitches before 4:45 PM, even on the shortest day of the year as per an independent survey. It also has eight pitches on the practice area and an indoor cricket center that has dwelling facilities for players.

Brabourne Stadium

• Location: Mumbai(INDIA)
• Year Opened: 1937
• Capacity:50,000
• Operated BY:Cricket club of india

Brabourne Stadium was located in the mumbai it was inagurated on the year 1937 it has capacity of 50,000 the stadium was get into light at 2006 in the year 2006 first icc champians trophy was played 
and the first T20I in 2007 .mainly it was the home ground of the MI in the ipl after a long wait of 36 years first test has played in the year 2009 and it also can host the football,tennis and concerts

Narendra Modi Stadium

• Location: Ahmedabad, India
• Year Opened: 1982
• Capacity:132,000
• Operated by:Gujarat Cricket Association

Narendra Modi Stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world with a seating capacity of 132,000 and it is located at Ahmedabad. This stadium is well equipped with all modern amenities such as LED floodlights, 11 centre circle pitches, four changing rooms, and two nets available. These mega events can be held without any hassle due to high end drainage facilities provided in this stadium. It hosted its first event after renovation, during the 2023 ICC Cricket World cup Final of 2020.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

• Location: Melbourne, Australia
• Year Opened: 1853
• Capacity:100,024
• Operated By:Melbourne Cricket Club

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Melbourne, Australia The MCG is one of the worlds most recognise stadiums, established in 1853 with a capacity of 100,024. Established through international events 1956 Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and several ICC World Cups. On top of that, the MCG serves as home to Boxing Day Test Match & AFL (Australian Football League) where jewel-like ring of grandstands set around a retractable roof.

Eden Gardens

• Location: Kolkata, India
• Year Opened: 1864
• Capacity:66,000

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India  Edens from Kolkata is the second-biggest stadium of the nation and one of the most cherished international cricket venues. Located in 1864 Eden Gardens, Kolkata (India) 66,000 often called as "Mecca of Indian Cricket" and it is where one will host numerous historic matches such as ICC Cricket World Cup final in 1987,2016 ICC World T20 Final etc.

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium(Nava Raipur International Cricket Stadium)

• Location: Raipur, India
• Year Opened: 2008
• Capacity:65000
• Operated BY:Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh

One of India's newest stadiums Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium Raipur(H), capacity 65,000 built in the year 2008For the year it opened, It is India's 50th international cricket ground and infamously a batsmen-friendly due to boundary dimensions. It has also held many an IPL and international domestic matches.

Perth Stadium

• Location: Perth, Australia
• Year Opened: 2018
• Capacity:61,266
• Operated BY:VenuesLive

Perth Stadium, also known as Optus Stadium in Perth, Australia, has a capacity of 61,266 and is a multi-use stadium that opened its doors back in 2018. It was opened near the Fremantle Sea and is the 2nd biggest cricket stadium in Australia after the MCG and provides an incredible view with fresh breeze. It is a general sports venue that can host cricket and Australian football matches.

ALSO READ:West Indies Secure Historic 120-Run Victory Over Pakistan in Multan, Ending 35-Year Wait for Win in Pakistan

The showdown between two cricketing powerhouses has commenced at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The first T20I of the five-match series is currently underway. After winning the toss, India took the dew factor into account and made a wise choice by asking England to bat first. Arshdeep Singh dented England by picking up two quick wickets but Jos Buttler was quick to get into his work and studied the ship for the tourists after an early setback. 

Some big names were omitted from India's lineup including the likes of Shami, Bumrah, and Virat. But the absence of India's T20 World Cup-winning captain Rohit Sharma left many supporters teary-eyed and emotional.

See also: Former Proteas great hints at a potential return to competitive cricket

'We miss him a lot' - Kolkata crowd's admiration for Rohit

The crowd at the Eden Gardens sees Rohit as a living legend. Sadded by the fact that Rohit announced his T20I retirement last year, the fans reportedly had tears in their eyes and admitted that they miss him a lot. 

Indians fans are getting emotional and missing their wc winning captain.🥹

Every second person is wearing 45 number jersey in Eden gardens.🥶 pic.twitter.com/jvTCh01wZg

— 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐮 (@Ro_45stan) January 22, 2025

To demonstrate their love for the former India captain, the fans wore Rohit's iconic jersey No. 45 and were cheering for team India to their fullest potential. 

Rohit is approaching the fag end of his career. Following India's dream run in the 2024 T20 World Cup edition, Rohit, along with Jadeja and Kohli announced their respective retirements from the shortest format. Although Rohit continues to captain the national side across Test and ODI formats, amidst deteriorating form, experts suggest that his days in international cricket could well be numbered. 

KKR faced the challenge of a reduced-overs match due to rain. After being invited to bat first by MI, KKR posted a competitive total of 157 for 7. Despite losing early wickets, a resilient batting effort saw KKR reach a respectable score.

Venkatesh Iyer’s Contribution

Venkatesh Iyer emerged as KKR’s standout performer, scoring 42 runs off 21 balls. His aggressive innings provided KKR with the impetus to set a challenging target for MI.

See Also: BCCI proposes no toss in CK Nayudu, Ranji Trophy split into two parts, and new rules in Duleep Trophy

Nitish Rana and Andre Russell played supporting roles, contributing valuable runs to bolster KKR’s total. Rinku Singh also made a notable contribution with the bat, ensuring that KKR reached a competitive score.

MI’s Bowling Effort

MI’s bowling unit performed commendably, with Piyush Chawla and Jasprit Bumrah picking up two wickets each. Despite the onslaught from KKR’s batters, MI managed to keep the scoring rate in check.

The match highlighted the divergent fortunes of KKR and MI in the IPL season. While KKR showcased significant improvement from the previous year, MI struggled to maintain consistency and failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Toss and Decision

MI skipper Hardik Pandya’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss reflected the team’s strategy of capitalizing on the conditions and restricting KKR to a manageable total.

With KKR reaching 157/7 in 16 overs, the stage is set for an exciting run chase by MI. In the final over, Ramandeep Singh finished off with a flourish, adding crucial 10 runs to KKR’s total.

Most dismissals as a wicketkeeper for MI in the IPL
48 – Ishan Kishan
47 – Quinton de Kock
28 – Parthiv Patel
21 – Dinesh Karthik

20 or more wickets in an IPL season most often
5 – Yuzvendra Chahal
4 – Jasprit Bumrah
4 – Lasith Malinga

As per live weather reports from the iconic Eden Gardens, the Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Mumbai Indians game has been delayed due to bad weather. It’ll take about 75 minutes for the ground to clear up. 10:56pm local is the latest a five-over game can start.

Weather Conditions at Eden Gardens

The iconic Eden Gardens, known for its passionate cricketing atmosphere, is shrouded in inclement weather. Persistent heavy rains and thunderstorms have engulfed the stadium, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the scheduled match. Despite brief interruptions, the lousy weather shows no signs of relenting, posing a challenge to the players and organizers alike.

See Also: England pacer James Anderson confirms his retirement date

Stakes for Kolkata Knight Riders

For Kolkata Knight Riders, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Currently positioned at the top of the IPL standings with 16 points from 11 matches, a victory in this encounter would solidify their spot in the playoffs.

Mumbai Indians’ Opportunity

Despite facing elimination from the tournament, Mumbai Indians have a golden opportunity to play spoilsport for KKR. A win against the table-toppers would dent their playoff aspirations and be a morale-boosting conclusion to their IPL campaign. With nothing to lose, MI enters the fray, intending to upset the apple cart.

Consequences of Rain Interruption

As the rain persists, speculation mounts regarding the match’s possible outcomes. If the weather continues to play spoilsport, the game could be abandoned, leading to a shared point for both teams. Such an outcome would have far-reaching implications for the IPL playoff race, creating a ripple effect across the points table.

Impact on Playoff Race

The scenario of a match abandonment presents a problem for IPL teams vying for playoff berths. For KKR, a shared point would propel them to 17 points in 12 matches, placing them in a favorable position for playoff qualification. Conversely, teams like Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants would find their playoff hopes dimmed, unable to catch up to KKR’s tally.

The excitement surrounding the Kolkata Knight Riders‘ home game at the iconic Eden Gardens on April 17 has been tinged with uncertainty. The much-anticipated match hangs in the balance as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) deliberates potential changes to the fixture.

The Dilemma

The looming uncertainty stems from the clash between the IPL match and the celebrated festival of Rama Navami. With festivities set to grip the nation. Authorities are grappling with concerns regarding the provision of adequate security for the event.

See Also: [Watch] Vizag tributes MS Dhoni with ‘yellove’

Rama Navami, an annual festival commemorating the birth of Lord Rama, holds immense significance across India. The fervent celebrations, coupled with the expected influx of devotees, pose logistical challenges for ensuring the safety and security of public gatherings.

Security Concerns

The security apparatus, particularly in cities like Kolkata, where the IPL match is slated to take place, is stretched thin due to the dual demands of festival management and general election arrangements.

The BCCI’s Deliberations

In light of these multifaceted considerations, the BCCI finds itself at a crossroads, contemplating the best course of action for the scheduled match. One option under consideration is the relocation of the game to an alternate venue deemed more conducive to ensuring the safety of players, officials, and spectators. Alternatively, the BCCI may opt to reschedule the match to a later date, thereby circumventing the logistical hurdles posed by the concurrent events.

Recognizing the importance of transparent communication, the BCCI has initiated discussions with all relevant stakeholders, including the franchises, state associations, and broadcasters.

Collaboration with Authorities

Crucially, the BCCI and the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) have been in constant dialogue with local law enforcement authorities. Notably the Kolkata police, to assess the feasibility of hosting the match amidst the prevailing circumstances.

As of now, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have triumphed in both of their two matches, elevating them to the top spot in the table. Conversely, Rajasthan Royals (RR) have emerged victorious in both of their games. They are also at the third position in the points table. Today, Rajasthan Royals are slated to encounter Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium.

Pat Cummins, the Sunrisers Hyderabad captain will be meeting his Australian teammate Mitchell Starc, the Kolkata Knight Riders core member in the third match of the ongoing IPL2024. Both teams will be facing each other at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. While Pat Cummins is excited for his new role for the Hyderabad franchise, he opened up about going up against Mitchell Starc ahead of the match.

Friends become rivals in IPL 2024

Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc have been crucial members of the Australian side for a long time. While Cummins will lead the Hyderabad team in IPL 2024, Starc will be seen as the Kolkata team leading pacer. They will be meeting each other at the toss of the match between SRH and KKR tonight in Kolkata. While speaking of the same, Cummins said,

“I will say this: hopefully, I don’t have to face Starc because that means our batters have done quite well. It’s funny… it’s one of the beauties of the IPL; I have been playing with Starcy for 15 years, [and] I can’t remember another game where I have played against him. Also, it’s going to be weird looking across and seeing him in the other dugout.”

During the pre-match press conference, he also said, “Yeah, being an opposition captain, seeing how we go about playing him will be an interesting part. But we’re both bowlers, so I am not sure we’ll cross [paths] too much.”

See also: IPL 2024: Top 4 Kolkata Knight Riders players to be in focus

While speaking about expectations, “I think it’s been a part of the IPL, you have expectations, you have a lot of fans who demand a lot out of the team, they want results. Yeah, being captain is probably a little bit more [of responsibility]. But it’s not much different to what we’re used to as players. We’ll give it our best.”

Sunrisers Hyderabad paid a whooping INR 20.50 crores to secure the service of Pat Cummins, the Test and ODI captain of Australia. However, KKR bought Starc for INR 24.75 crores after releasing Cummins and Lockie Ferguson. Now it will be interesting to watch the battle of the two most expensive players in IPL 2024 as well.