KKR vs RCB 2025 Live: A Thrilling Start to IPL 2025
KKR vs RCB 2025 The much-anticipated clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 lived up to its hype, delivering an exciting match that set the tone for the season. The first IPL after the mega auction brought significant expectations, with both teams eager to showcase their new lineups. However, RCB dominated the opening night, securing a seven-wicket victory over KKR at Eden Gardens.
Kohli, Salt Thrash KKR on Opening Night of IPL 2025
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru put up a commanding performance with both bat and ball, ensuring a comfortable win. Josh Hazlewood led the bowling attack, while Krunal Pandya proved crucial with his three-wicket haul. When it came to batting, Phil Salt and Virat Kohli dismantled the KKR bowling lineup, sealing the match with ease.
KKR vs RCB 2025 Live Match Today: Match Summary
Match Info
Match | KKR vs RCB, 1st Match, IPL 2025 |
Date | March 22, 2025 |
Venue | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
Toss | RCB won the toss and opted to bowl |
Result | RCB won by 7 wickets |
Player of the Match | Virat Kohli |
KKR vs RCB 2025 Update: Key Performances
Kolkata Knight Riders Innings: 174/8 (20 Overs)
Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
Ajinkya Rahane (c) | 56 | 31 | 6 | 4 | 180.65 |
Sunil Narine | 44 | 26 | 5 | 3 | 169.23 |
Angkrish Raghuvanshi | 30 | 22 | 2 | 1 | 136.36 |
Rinku Singh | 12 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 120.00 |
Krunal Pandya (RCB) | 4-0-29-3 | ||||
Josh Hazlewood (RCB) | 4-0-22-2 |
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Innings: 177/3 (16.2 Overs)
Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
Virat Kohli | 59* | 36 | 4 | 3 | 163.89 |
Philip Salt | 56 | 31 | 9 | 2 | 180.65 |
Rajat Patidar | 34 | 16 | 5 | 1 | 212.50 |
How RCB Secured the Victory?
1. KKR’s Solid Start but Mid-Innings Collapse
KKR started well, with Rahane and Narine forging a 103-run partnership, putting them in a strong position. However, once Rahane fell to Krunal Pandya, the innings lost momentum. The middle order crumbled under pressure, failing to accelerate in the death overs.
2. RCB’s Bowlers Deliver on Big Occasion
RCB’s bowling attack, led by Hazlewood (2/22) and Krunal Pandya (3/29), kept KKR in check. Suyash Sharma also took a crucial wicket, dismissing Andre Russell and restricting KKR to 174.
3. RCB’s Dominant Chase with Salt and Kohli Leading the Way
RCB’s chase was nothing short of spectacular. Phil Salt smashed 56 off 31 balls, taking charge in the powerplay. Virat Kohli, as always, played the anchor role, staying unbeaten on 59 off 36 balls. Rajat Patidar (34 off 16) also contributed significantly, ensuring RCB comfortably chased down the target in 16.2 overs.
Turning Points of the Match
- Krunal Pandya’s spell (4-0-29-3) dismantled KKR’s middle order.
- Josh Hazlewood’s disciplined bowling (4-0-22-2) restricted KKR in the death overs.
- Philip Salt’s explosive start (56 off 31) ensured RCB never fell behind in the chase.
- Virat Kohli’s finishing touch (59 off 36)* sealed the win with 22 balls to spare.
KKR vs RCB 2025: What This Means for Both Teams?
RCB: A Perfect Start to IPL 2025
This win will give RCB a major confidence boost moving forward in the tournament. Their key players delivered, and the bowling unit looked sharp. If RCB continues this form, they could be serious contenders for the IPL 2025 title.
KKR: Areas to Improve
For KKR, the loss highlighted a few issues:
- The middle order needs more stability.
- Death bowling remains a concern.
- The team must capitalize on strong starts and finish innings better.
RCB Outplays KKR in Season Opener
The first match of IPL 2025 saw an emphatic win for RCB, with Kohli, Salt, and Krunal Pandya stealing the show. KKR started strong but lost momentum after Rahane and Narine’s 103-run partnership was broken. With a dominant chase and stellar bowling, RCB made a statement on opening night.
