RCB Dominates Defending Champions KKR in IPL 2025 Opener

The Indian Premier League 2025 kicked off with a high-voltage clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Eden Gardens. RCB put on a clinical display to outplay KKR, registering a convincing seven-wicket win and making a powerful statement early in the tournament.

KKR Falters Despite a Strong Start

After being sent in to bat, KKR got off to a promising start. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane led from the front with a fluent 56 off 31 balls, while Sunil Narine chipped in with a useful 44. However, their innings stumbled in the middle overs, losing key wickets in quick succession. RCB’s Krunal Pandya was instrumental in applying the brakes, finishing with figures of 3 for 29. The Knight Riders managed 174 for 8 in their 20 overs—a total that looked competitive, but ultimately fell short.

Kohli and Salt Light Up the Chase

Chasing 175, RCB looked in complete control from the first over. England’s Phil Salt launched a ferocious assault, smashing 56 from just 31 deliveries, setting the tone early on. His opening stand of 95 runs with Virat Kohli laid the foundation for a smooth chase. Kohli, anchoring the innings like only he can, remained unbeaten on 59, steering RCB home with 22 balls to spare.

Bowling Brilliance Backs Up the Win

While the batting earned the spotlight, RCB’s bowlers laid the groundwork for the win. Veteran pacer Josh Hazlewood returned to the side with a tight spell of 2 for 22, bowling 16 dot balls and keeping the KKR batters in check. His economy and control were vital in the death overs.

What’s Next?

This performance sends a strong message from RCB, who look hungry for their first-ever IPL title. For KKR, the loss serves as an early wake-up call. With plenty of matches ahead, they’ll need to regroup quickly and iron out the middle-order inconsistencies.

Key Performers:

• Virat Kohli (RCB): 59* (42 balls)
• Phil Salt (RCB): 56 (31 balls)
• Krunal Pandya (RCB): 3/29
• Ajinkya Rahane (KKR): 56 (31 balls)
• Josh Hazlewood (RCB): 2/22 (4 overs)

Final Score:

• KKR: 174/8 (20 overs)
• RCB: 175/3 (16.2 overs)

Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by 7 wickets.