Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Kolkata Knight Riders in the inaugural match of the Indian Premier League’s 2025 season. RCB was defeated in both encounters against KKR in the last edition, in a rivalry that proved to be one of the most captivating for fans in 2024.
Although the initial match was a fierce battle due to Virat Kohli’s disputed dismissal off Harshit Rana, RCB was overwhelmed in the second game as KKR chased 183 runs in merely 16.5 overs at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
KKR’s supremacy, thanks to their highly aggressive batting approach and exceptional spin-bowling, not only allowed the team to establish its control over its opponents but also enabled them to secure their first title in a decade. The two squads with significantly different, opposing styles face off again — this time in the prominent matchup to start the season.
In the opening game of the inaugural Indian Premier League, RCB was dominated by KKR. In numerous aspects, Brendon McCullum’s innings of 158* from 73 balls contributed significantly to the IPL’s immense popularity, and once more, there is hope that this rivalry will provide the tournament with the beginning it needs following the thrilling last season.
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RCB, KKR led by new skippers this season
However, it is not that straightforward. Both KKR and RCB have undergone significant transformations leading into this edition of the IPL. Each team has new captains now.
RCB is captained by Rajat Patidar, a 31-year-old batter from Madhya Pradesh, who has not secured his position in the Indian team. KKR will be led by Ajinkya Rahane, who hasn’t played a T20I match for India since 2016.
While not doubting the credentials of either man, it’s possible that the captains’ lineup being somewhat mid-tier this season reflects a similar trend among other teams.
Several teams such as CSK, PBKS, GT, and LSG are captained by players who are either not established in their national T20I squad or are not considered for leadership positions. However, it can be said in favor of the IPL that it provides a stage for those cricketers to demonstrate that they possess the tactical insight and technical skill to compete with the world’s best on any given day.
Can No. 18 prove lucky for King Kohli?
The atmosphere this season is — can No. 18 (Virat Kohli) secure the trophy in the 18th edition of the competition? What an intriguing tale that would be, wouldn’t it?
Considering the new team and its shortcomings, it will be a significant challenge for RCB to compete for the playoff positions. However, if they begin the tournament strongly, you can’t predict what a fresh team, unencumbered by any mental burdens, might achieve in a tournament such as the IPL!
