The highly anticipated IPL 2025 season kicks off with a thrilling clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), at the iconic Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM (IST).
KKR and RCB share a historic rivalry, and this is only the second time they are meeting in an IPL season opener. The last time these two teams clashed in the tournament’s first game was back in 2008 when KKR dominated RCB with a resounding 140-run victory. That match remains iconic, with Brendon McCullum’s sensational 158* setting the tone for the IPL’s legacy.
Overall, KKR and RCB have faced each other 35 times in the IPL. Kolkata holds the edge, winning 21 encounters, while Bengaluru has emerged victorious 14 times. With this game being played at Eden Gardens, KKR enjoys the advantage of home conditions. The stadium’s small boundaries and batting-friendly pitch make it a paradise for batters, setting the stage for another high-scoring thriller.
However, RCB, known for their explosive batting lineup, is eager to turn the tables and start their campaign on a winning note. They have the firepower to challenge KKR and pull off a surprise in the tournament’s first game.
Also Check: KKR vs RCB Live Score, Match 1
IPL Stats and Records at Eden Gardens, Kolkata
One of India’s oldest stadiums, Eden Gardens, has hosted numerous matches. Known for high-scoring encounters, especially in T20s, it features small boundaries and a batting-friendly wicket. Batters relish playing here, making it a paradise for stroke-makers.
| Matches Played |
93 |
| Matches Won Batting First |
38 |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 55 |
| Matches With No Result | 00 |
| Matches Tied | 00 |
| Average First Innings Score | 169 |
| Highest Team Total | 262 |
| Highest Total Successfully Chased | 261 |
Also Check: KKR vs RCB Dream11 Prediction
Top player battles to watch out for in Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
Virat Kohli vs Sunil Narine
The IPL’s highest run-scorer, Virat Kohli—a strong contender for the IPL 2025 Orange Cap—is set to face the tournament’s most successful bowler, Sunil Narine. The mystery spinner has troubled Kohli, dismissing him four times in T20s, though Kohli holds a solid 31.8 average against him. Their middle-overs battle will be crucial, as both players aim to provide a much-needed boost to their teams.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs Andre Russell
Jamaican powerhouse Andre Russell faces swing king Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the IPL opener. Russell boasts an impressive record, scoring 97 runs off 37 balls against Kumar, who has dismissed him only once. Their battle in the death overs will be crucial, as both teams aim to gain momentum in the final phase and boost their chances for the IPL 2025 Purple Cap.
Josh Hazlewood vs Quinton de Kock
South African left-hander Quinton de Kock will face the experienced Australian pacer, Josh Hazlewood, known for swinging the ball both ways in the powerplay. In three T20 meetings, Hazlewood has dismissed de Kock twice, restricting him to just 12 runs as many balls the South African has faced. On a batting-friendly pitch, expect an aggressive battle between these top-quality players.
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