Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign at their home ground, Eden Gardens in Kolkata, against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This highly anticipated match marks the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and brings back a historic rivalry. The two teams famously faced off in the first-ever IPL match in 2008, and for the first time since then, they will meet in a season opener, adding extra excitement to the tournament’s start.
KKR has retained six players from their 2024 title-winning squad while making key additions at the mega auction. The team will take the field under a new captain, Ajinkya Rahane, who replaces Shreyas Iyer. Meanwhile, Venkatesh Iyer, acquired for a whopping INR 23.75 crores, will serve as vice-captain. Despite the leadership change, 12 players from last season remain, ensuring stability in the squad.
RCB will also have a new leader, with Rajat Patidar captaining the side for IPL 2025. Retained for INR 11 crore, Patidar has impressed as Madhya Pradesh’s domestic captain and now takes charge of a revamped RCB squad. While several new faces have joined, the team revolves around Virat Kohli, whose presence remains crucial to their success.
Also Check- Indian Premier League 2025: KKR vs RCB- Stats & Records at Eden Gardens, Kolkata
The opening match provides both teams with an opportunity to set the tone for the season and gain early momentum. With fresh leadership, revamped squads, and the pressure of a season opener, this clash promises to deliver a thrilling start to IPL 2025.
Here are the important upcoming milestones for players of both teams
KKR Players' Upcoming Milestones:
- Sunil Narine: Needs 3 sixes to score 100 sixes in IPL.
- Sunil Narine: Needs 4 wickets to become the highest wicket-taker against RCB in IPL.
- Andre Russell: Needs 16 runs to reach 2,500 runs in IPL.
- Varun Chakravarthy: Needs 4 wickets to complete 100 T20 wickets in India.
RCB Players' Upcoming Milestones:
- Rajat Patidar: Needs 37 runs to reach 2,500 runs in T20s.
- Virat Kohli: Set to play his 400th T20.
- Devdutt Padikkal: Set to play his 100th T20.
- Liam Livingstone: Needs 61 runs to score 1,000 runs in IPL.
- Virat Kohli: Needs 38 runs to score 1,000 runs against KKR in IPL
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