KKR vs RCB: Rain threat looming over IPL 2025 opening clash

It's just a little over a day left for IPL 2025 to kick off as per the schedule. However, the wait feels the longest as the excitement for the 18th edition has reached its peak. The upcoming season will begin with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders taking on fan favorites Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens. But much to the dismay of fans, recent weather reports emerging from Kolkata have raised concerns. An orange alert has been issued for the city, with showers expected to hit the venue on the opening day of the much-awaited IPL 2025.

IPL 2025: Rain could play the spoilsport in KKR vs RCB season opener 

The much-anticipated opening match of the 18th edition of the IPL between reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, scheduled for March 22 at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, faces a high chance of being called off due to adverse weather conditions. With heavy rainfall expected in the city, the fixture is under threat. Adding to the grandeur of the season opener, a star-studded ceremony is set to take place, featuring performances by renowned singer Shreya Ghoshal, Punjabi artist Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani. 

However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and persistent rain until March 22, caused by an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, raising concerns about a washout. Additionally, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata has issued an orange alert for several areas in West Bengal from March 20 to March 22. The IPL 2025 opener carries added significance as both teams will be led by new captains. RCB has entrusted Rajat Patidar with leadership duties, while KKR has appointed Ajinkya Rahane as Shreyas Iyer’s successor, with Venkatesh Iyer taking up the vice-captaincy.

“Thunderstorm activity over the districts of West Bengal from 20th to 22nd March 2025. Due to the presence of favourable wind patterns & strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels, Thunderstorms with lightning and strong gusty surface winds are very likely to occur in some districts of West Bengal during 20-22 March 2025,” the weather report read.

RCB, who finished fourth last season before bowing out in the Eliminator, will look to improve upon their previous campaign. KKR, on the other hand, bounced back from disappointing 2022 and 2023 seasons to claim the title last year. Historically, Kolkata holds the upper hand in this rivalry, winning eight out of 12 encounters against RCB at Eden Gardens.