IPL 2025 Opener Faces Weather Threat as Kolkata Braces for Heavy Rain

The Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to clash on March 22, but an orange alert for thunderstorms raises concerns over the match's fate.

The IPL 2025 season begins March 22 with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Heavy rainfall and a meteorological orange alert for Kolkata from March 20-22 could disrupt both the opening match and the star-studded ceremony featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Disha Patani, and Shreya Ghoshal.
New captains Ajinkya Rahane (KKR) and Rajat Patidar (RCB) will lead their teams, reflecting ongoing leadership transitions across the league.
Virat Kohli remains a major draw for fans, with significant attention on his performance despite stepping down as RCB captain.
This season introduces a new rule allowing captains to choose when to use a second new ball in night game second innings, aiming to address dew-related challenges.