The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence on March 22, 2025, with an exciting opening match between the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). This inaugural game will take place at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, marking the third time the venue has hosted an IPL final, previously in 2013 and 2015.
Match Details
- Date: March 22, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM IST
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Teams: Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore
Team Leadership
In this season opener, KKR will be led by their captain, Ajinkya Rahane, who brings a wealth of experience and tactical acumen to the team. On the other hand, RCB will be captained by Rajat Patidar, who has been appointed as the new leader for the franchise ahead of the 2025 season.
Broadcast and Streaming
Fans can catch the live action on the Star Sports Network, which holds the satellite broadcasting rights for the IPL. Additionally, the match will be streamed live on JioHotstar, providing viewers with flexible options to enjoy the game.
Tournament Overview
The IPL 2025 will feature 10 teams competing in a total of 74 matches across 13 venues in India. The tournament will follow a group stage and playoff format, culminating in the final scheduled for May 25, 2025, at Eden Gardens.
Notable Highlights
- International Stars: The season will see participation from prominent international players, including Jos Buttler, who was acquired by Gujarat Titans for a record $1.81 million, making him the highest-paid overseas player this season.
- Double-Headers: The schedule includes 13 double-header days, with afternoon matches starting at 3:30 PM IST and evening matches at 7:30 PM IST, offering fans multiple games on select days.
With teams finalizing their squads and strategies, the anticipation for IPL 2025 is building up. The opening match between the two arch-rivals of IPl will be an exciting start to this edition of IPL.
