TATA IPL 2025 : MATCH-1 RCB beat KKR
In a thrilling start to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a commanding seven-wicket victory over the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at Eden Gardens on March 22, 2025.
KKR’s Innings: A Promising Start Derailed
After losing the toss and being put into bat, KKR faced an early setback with opener Quinton de Kock dismissed for a duck by Josh Hazlewood in the first over. However, skipper Ajinkya Rahane and all-rounder Sunil Narine stabilized the innings, forging a formidable 103-run partnership for the second wicket. Rahane showcased aggressive intent, reaching his half-century in just 25 balls and eventually scoring 56 off 31 deliveries, including six fours and four sixes. Narine contributed a brisk 44 off 26 balls, featuring five boundaries and three maximums.
Despite this strong foundation, KKR’s momentum faltered following the dismissals of Rahane and Narine. The middle and lower-order batsmen struggled to capitalize, with Venkatesh Iyer (6), Rinku Singh (12), and Andre Russell (4) failing to make significant contributions. Youngster Angkrish Raghuvanshi added a valuable 30 runs, but KKR managed a below-par total of 174 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs.
RCB’s Bowling: A Tale of Comebacks
RCB’s bowlers, led by left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya, orchestrated a remarkable comeback after the initial onslaught. Pandya’s impressive figures of 3 for 29 included the crucial wickets of Rahane, Iyer, and Rinku Singh, effectively stalling KKR’s progress. Josh Hazlewood, returning from injury, delivered a disciplined spell, claiming 2 for 22, including the early breakthrough of de Kock.
RCB’s Chase: Kohli and Salt Shine
Chasing 175, RCB’s innings was anchored by their talismanic batter, Virat Kohli, who remained unbeaten on 59. Kohli’s experience and composure were complemented by a scintillating knock from Phil Salt, a former KKR player, who blasted 56 runs at the top of the order. The duo’s efforts ensured RCB’s dominance, with new skipper Rajat Patidar adding a valuable 34 runs. Liam Livingstone sealed the victory with an unbeaten 15, as RCB reached the target in just 16.2 overs.
Historical Context: RCB’s Resurgence Against KKR
This victory marked RCB’s first win over KKR since 2022, ending a three-year drought. Notably, it was also RCB’s first triumph at Eden Gardens since 2019, highlighting a significant turnaround in their fortunes against the Kolkata-based franchise.
Conclusion
RCB’s comprehensive performance in the IPL 2025 opener underscores their intent to clinch their maiden title. With seasoned players like Kohli leading the charge and new additions like Salt making immediate impacts, RCB has set a formidable tone for the season ahead. Conversely, KKR will need to reassess and strategize to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
