After a very surprising turnout of events, the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season is currently at its peak with the most windy viewership trends. The match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has attracted more viewership than the epic Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs. Mumbai Indians (MI) rivalry, thus being a real "El Clasico" of the IPL.

According to a live broadcast on platforms including JioHotsar and social media, the KKR vs. RCB match on March 22, 2025, was the platform for an RCB victory by 7 wickets, where it hit over 41.7 crore views. The media also confirms that even on the most tweeted of days, the viewership peaks at 42 crore. In opposition to this, the high-profile match CSK vs. MI match, a staple of the schedule that was once a fan favorite because of the star power chests of players such as MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, saw 30 crore views. CSK won the match by 4 runs, but maybe the fall in the numbers reflects the absence of the regular excitement.

Viewership in IPL 2025

• RCB vs KKR viewership - 41.7 CR
• CSK vs MI viewership - 30.8 CR

Ithula vera Riyal Ipl ahaan 😅 pic.twitter.com/0c4XW8QVvw

— ပ𑂞ఎ𑂞♡™ (@Sribala111) March 24, 2025

Also Read: Malti Chahar’s Hilarious Instagram Story Sparks Laughter After CSK vs. MI Clash

This trend might be brought about by different reasons. KKR and RCB are two teams that have a large number of fans, with RCB often having the most devoted ones who can ride behind Virat Kohli, the one who continues to hold the audiences glued to his fanatical performances.

On the other hand, KKR has been a steady performer in recent seasons, and this feature has improved their image. CSK and MI, though they may have the strongest rivalry, might actually be getting watcher fatigue, or some of their key players absence would have made the matches dull.

Also Read: Watch:David Warner Dances with Ketika Sharma at Robin Hood Event

Views on the social media platform were split, as there were some fans who were sad over the season's opening matches being not hyped, while others were enthusiastic about KKR vs RCB's powerful performance. 

The Indian Premier League's (IPL) 18th season started with a cracker of a match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on March 22, 2025. it initially increased to 126 decibels when KKR's Quinton de Kock (QDK) hit the first boundary of the season against RCB. Featuring prominently in Star Sports' live broadcast, 126 dB is about as loud as a jet engine. Known for aggressive batting, de Kock gave KKR a positive start, surprising and igniting excitement in the Kolkata crowd while thrilling the brigade for a great start to their innings. The first boundary of de Kock not only registered on the Shor-Meter, it was KKR's true statement of intent in the tournament.

Kohli's explosive half-century in the 5th over of RCB's chase was met with a thrilling response as Virat Kohli, and the stadium exploded with a Shor-Meter reading of 118 decibels (dB), the electric atmosphere of the tournament opener.

The match started with KKR registering the season’s first boundary and causing a first major spike on the Shor-Meter at 126 dB. For example, 126 dB is about as loud as a jet engine, while 118 dB is about as loud as a rock concert. Kohli’s brilliant stroke play and aggressive intent, though, kept RCB in the game and, inevitably, lit the passionate crowd of Eden Gardens.

Half-centurion #ViratKohli's 6️⃣, in the 5th over of the 2nd innings, hit 118 dB on the Shormeter! 🔊

Will we see #Virat set a new Shor record at #Chepauk? Or will Thala #MSDhoni set the Shormeter soaring?#IPLonJioStar 👉 #CSKvRCB | FRI 28 MAR, 6:30 PM pic.twitter.com/DV9NRuQTEL

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 22, 2025

Also Read: CSK vs MI: WEATHER & PITCH REPORT

KKR posted a fairly respectable total, but their early fireworks had the stands excited. But he was no less electrifying in response, as Kohli led RCB's chase with a clear cut air of confidence. When he reached his fifty, the stadium was in a deafening roar, the energy of the IPL fans and their unwavering support.

As the season progresses, other venues, like Chepauk and Wankhede, with their raucous atmosphere, will try to rival Eden Gardens’ number. There is a exhilarating angle to IPL 2025, the Shor-Meter that converts crowd energy into a bonafide rivalry in the stadium. With cricket’s biggest stars geared up to set the stage ablaze, this undying battle for the loudest cheer has just begun!

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) engaged in a high-stakes match at Eden Gardens to kick off the IPL 2025 season. RCB got off to a fast start, reaching 126/2 in just 12.5 overs while chasing a target of 175. Virat Kohli, who was instrumental KKR in the final of the T20 World Cup with 55 runs off only 30 balls, set the mood for a comprehensive run chase.

Kohli came out early on and made a statement. His 50 from 30 balls, complete with elegantly placed boundaries and brute force sixes, was a family blend of class and aggression. The boundaries were perfectly timed, and the sixes were flamboyantly struck. Kohli was smart and good at managing KKR's key bowlers Sunil Narine and Andre Russell by executing controlled selection and timely tactics that managed KKR's key threat. Kohli's uncanny ability to not only control the game but also change the strike kept KKR on the back foot, and at times made their bowlers non-factors.

Virat Kohli slams half-century in 30 balls. RCB 126/2 in 12.5 overs vs Kolkata Knight Riders (174/8) in IPL 2025 opener#KKRvsRCB #IPL2025 #IPL #RCBvsKKR #KKRvRCB

LIVE Scorecard: https://t.co/yOUIKX9afG

LIVE Updates: https://t.co/ws1DBsbi3N

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 22, 2025

Also Read: Watch:A fan breached the field and touched Virat Kohli's feet.

Bitten by KKR's inconsistency with their bowling, RCB was intent on an aggressive start from the powerplay. With Kohli taking responsibility, other batters played their part in the chase to make sure that RCB kept on track and when RCB lost their second wicket in the 12.5 over mark, they had all but sealed the game, with the wicket at Eden Gardens also suggesting that stroke play would bring ease to batting.

The KKR bowlers and fielders did not do a great job for a total of 174/8. Missed chances and bad lines allowed RCB to dominate KKR’s overmatched bowlers. KKR’s batters did show flashes but were far too inconsistent and could not really build on their victories over RCB’s disciplined bowling. An explosive 50 off 30 balls by Virat Kohli propelled RCB to an aggressive start on a punishing evening in IPL 2025’s opener against KKR with a chase of 175. RCB reached 126/2 in just 12.5 overs and that was enough to reiterate the advantage and confidence of RCB’s batters.

Virat Kohli Fan Breach Episode in IPL 2025

Match Details:

• Match: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• Date: March 22, 2025

The IPL 2025 league started with an interesting match, but a surprising incident involving Virat Kohli took the attention. A fan broke through the security and went onto the field, leading to a temporary disturbance.

Fan Breaks into Field to Welcome Kohli
During the game, an overexcited fan somehow evaded the security and raced towards Virat Kohli. The fan bowled at the feet of Kohli and attempted to touch his feet as a gesture of respect. Kohli, being famously calm, reacted with surprise for a moment, but then, he indicated towards the security staff to take matters into their own hands.Kohli’s Reaction
Kohli was professional during the incident. Although he appreciated the fan's admiration, he did not support such an act. Security personnel intervened and removed the fan from the field to avoid further disturbance.

1st match of IPL 2025.
50 in 30 balls.
Showed his bat.
Fan entered into ground to worship him and he was fumed. 😭😭 (watch this in the end) https://t.co/1lEdzaqwEQ pic.twitter.com/yJhyoQaPPS

— 🧑🏻‍🦯 (@mathakedarad) March 22, 2025

ALSO READ:Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Complete Details and Possible Venues

Security Issues in IPL Matches
Fan intrusions during IPL matches have been a regular phenomenon. While it is understandable to be a fan of cricketers such as Kohli, such intrusions cause serious security threats. IPL officials can now consider enhancing security checks to avoid any such incidents in the future.

A fan touching the feet & hugging King Kohli at Eden Gardens. pic.twitter.com/YiCHgRQ7j9

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 22, 2025

Salt's Explosive Knock Chasing KKR’s 174/8, Salt opened alongside Virat Kohli and was off to the races immediately.He opened his innings with a boundary off Vaibhav Arora's bowl which began a spree of incredible powerful strokes complemented by superb shot selection. 

The more potent bowlers, namely the spinners, were no match for Salt. Varun Chakaravarthy, slackened under the pressure from Salt, conceding multiple boundaries followed by a monstrous six. KKR's Salt leashed fearfully blasted straight through their spin options, and RCB finished over the powerplay at 80/0.

To conclude the powerplay, Salt stood at 49 runs with an astonishingly low 23 balls. He finished his innings with a flurry of runs, securing a 50 within roughly a blink of the eye. He quickly reached his fifty, marking one of the most dominant season openers in IPL history. 

Phil Salt slams half-century in 25 balls. Royal Challengers Bengaluru 86/0 in 6.5 overs vs Kolkata Knight Riders (174/8) in IPL 2025 opener#KKRvsRCB #IPL2025 #IPL #RCBvsKKR #KKRvRCB

LIVE Scorecard: https://t.co/yOUIKX9I5e

LIVE Updates: https://t.co/ws1DBsbPTl pic.twitter.com/U4rfHSmggy

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 22, 2025

Also Read: Krunal Pandya Taunts with Outstanding Spell Against Kolkata Knight Riders

Salt helped his previous team, KKR win the IPL 2024 title but after KKR's successful campaign he moved to RCB, for ₹11.5 crore. As Salt returned to his former home, the Eden Gardens, he appeared to be a man that would spare anyone, quickly transforming myriads of his knowledge of the context into horrific damage.

A Statement from RCB Salt's performance showed RCB's ambition for their first IPL title. His explosive performance justified RCB's massive outlay, showing he could be the X-factor every successful team needs to contend. If this was merely the start, RCB fans have more than reason to hope that 2025 was going to finally be the year for them.

The 18th Indian Premier League began in style on Saturday, March 22, match between defending champions KKR and RCB. The Eden Gardens opening ceremony was replete with star power, music, and energy, with Shah Rukh Khan being the showstopper.

Singer Shreya Ghoshal got the proceedings underway with a soulful rendition of "Vande Mataram" before other artists followed with dazzling performances. The stadium was charged with electricity as the fans cheered the teams and the celebrations illuminated the night.

One of the highlights of the function was when SRK brought on board RCB's Virat Kohli and KKR's Rinku Singh to the stage. The three of them danced to Shah Rukh's biggest hits and enjoyed fun moments before thousands of people.

But one small incident between Virat and Rinku went viral on the internet. In a video clip doing the rounds on social media, Virat extends his arm for a fist bump, but Rinku appeared to miss it and passed by without even acknowledging. Fans were upset galore thinking that it was rude, but it became evident later that it was merely an honest miss.

ALSO SEE: IPL: Virat Kohli Dances with Shah Rukh Khan to "Jhoome Jo Pathaan"

The way Rinku Singh ignored Virat Kohli. 😹 Aura -1000 #KKRvsRCB
pic.twitter.com/zAKZm9o1v2

— ‏ً (@Ro45Goat) March 22, 2025

Virat was not bothered in the least. The two laughed it off later, with Virat playfully referring to Rinku's dance as the "See-Saw" dance, which had the audience in stitches. Rinku danced to "Lutt Putt Gaya" with SRK, while Virat danced to "Jhoome Jo Pathaan."

It was a fun and lighthearted beginning to the season, illustrating the friendship and fun behind the sport. With regards to the game, RCB had won the toss and decided to bowl first, signaling another thrilling season of the IPL.

Rahane’s Explosive Knock

After the team suffered an early loss, Rahane came on to the plate and played calmly along with hitting the ball very hard. He managed to score multiple boundaries and other good shots to keep the KKR in a good position. He was able to score his fifty in just 25 balls showcasing that he can play a T20 match and be very effective for the team.

HALF-CENTURY!!

Ajinkya Rahane slams half-century in 25 balls. Kolkata Knight Riders 81/1 in 8.1 overs vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru#KKRvsRCB #IPL2025 #IPL #RCBvsKKR #KKRvRCB

LIVE Scorecard: https://t.co/yOUIKX9I5e

LIVE Updates: https://t.co/ws1DBsbPTl

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 22, 2025

ALSO READ:-Why bhuvaneswar Kumar is not playing today's match KKR VS RCB: IPL 2025

Strong Position for KKR

 With power-hitters like Andre Russell yet to come, KKR looked poised to capitalize further.  

Rahane’s brilliant innings not only boosted his confidence but also sent a strong message to opponents this season. His form will be crucial for KKR as they aim for a successful IPL campaign.

Live Score Update: KKR vs RCB

As of now on March 22, 2025, in the opening match of IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are batting against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). KKR's score stands at 131/4 after 13 overs.

IPL 2025 Live Streaming: How to Watch in Different Countries

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is returning with exciting cricket action, which is all set to begin on March 22, 2025. This season holds promise of exciting matches, fierce rivalries, and memorable performances by the best cricketers in the world. Fans globally are eagerly waiting to watch and support their favorite teams. From television watching to streaming online, here is a complete guide to IPL 2025 live in your nation. KKR VS RCB

Match Details:

• Fixture: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
• Date: March 22, 2025
• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• Match Start Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Opening Ceremony: 6:00 PM IST

Live Streaming and TV Broadcast of KKR VS RCB

ALSO READ:KKR vs RCB Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win? | Match 1, IPL 2025 Preview & Analysis

Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Predicted Playing XI

Kolkata Knight Riders Playing XII

Quinton De Kock, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Harshith Rana, Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, Mayank Markande, Ramandeep Singh

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Playing XI

Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Jacob Bethell/ Tim David, Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, Jitesh Sharma, Yash Dayal, Swapnil Singh, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rasikh Salam 

Eden Gardens in Kolkata is ready for the first game of the IPL 2025 as the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders are hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru (KKR vs RCB) on Saturday evening (March 22). Before the IPL 2025 opener, let's check some major things for the Dream11 selections for the KKR vs RCB match.

IPL 2025, Match 1: KKR vs RCB Predicted Playing XI

Kolkata Knight Riders Predicted Playing XI: Sunil Narine, Quinton de Kock (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Ramandeep Singh, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, Spencer Johnson, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Predicted Playing XI: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (Captain), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

See Also: IPL:-Kolkata Police Respond to Concerns About IPL Match Rescheduling

Things to remember in Dream 11 team selection for KKR vs RCB match 1 IPL 2025

As there is a high chance for rain interruptions during the IPL 2025 opener between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, we should have put higher Dream11 selection rates on the fiery batters and in-form bowlers. Also, we should give more importance to the all-rounders.

Key Dream11 selections for the IPL 2025 Match 1: KKR vs RCB

Kolkata Knight Riders: Favourite choices for captain and vice-captain

Sunil Narine: Due to his aggressive batting in the powerplay and experienced quality bowling in the venue, the KKR legend Sunil Narine is one of the strong names for this fixture.

Andre Russell: KKR cricketer Andre Russell is another all-rounder who becomes fit in any shorter version of the cricket match. His explosive batting and effective pace bowling can always prove to be a game changer.

Varun Chakravarthy: In-form Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy is now an important name. Although the rain-affected shorter format can affect his importance status, we can't ignore him now. 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Favourite choices for captain and vice-captain

Virat Kohli: Former Indian and RCB captain Virat Kohli is always a busy batter, as the right-handed batter can still be effective in any shorter T20 match. The fans will love to see the dominance of the leading run-scorer in IPL history.

Phil Salt: Although the English cricketer Phil Salt is currently not in good form, he is always a dangerous batter in any shorter cricket format. 

Liam Livingstone: English cricketer Liam Livingstone is always a dangerous batter in a shorter format who can change the game scenario very quickly. Even his cameo can influence his batting side. Also, Livingstone is useful as a part-time spinner as he can take key wickets. 

Due to erroneous social media claims regarding the possible IPL match adjustment for April 6, Kolkata Police issued an observation to clear the air. In the statement, the police have confirmed that every single decision to secure and to deploy resources is always and shall forever remain centered around the safety of citizens. They asked citizens not to disseminate or believe dubious claims.

Public Safety is the Primary Concern

Since the IPL is one of the major sporting spectacles, security of large gatherings is an equally important challenge. Kolkata Police ensure that each of these events will be conducted in a safe and hassle free event. The riot police stand prepared with appropriate action in the event of increasing tensions among the various supporters.

Certain misleading posts are being circulated regarding the proposed rescheduling of the IPL match on 6th April. Kolkata Police remains firmly committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. All deployment decisions are made keeping public safety as the top…

— Kolkata Police (@KolkataPolice) March 21, 2025

ALSOREAD:-IPL 2025 KKR vs RCB : Player BATTLE TO WATCH OUT

Verify Information Before Sharing

Kolkata police requested for citizens to refrain from sharing alarming fake posts as they are only counterproductive. Authorities come forth to ask all people to fact check all posts from dubious claimants before widely distributing them.

Kolkata Police quite confidently ended their message concerning the welfare of citizens by saying their slogan – “With you, Always.”