RCB's Strong Start to IPL 2025

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) kicked off their Indian Premier League 2025 campaign in style with a dominant seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The match, held at the iconic Eden Gardens, saw RCB chase down a target of 175 with ease, thanks to a scintillating opening partnership between Virat Kohli and England’s Phil Salt.

Kohli and Salt’s Explosive Partnership

• Virat Kohli remained unbeaten on 59 off just 36 deliveries, showcasing his trademark consistency and class.
• Phil Salt blasted a quickfire 56 from 31 balls, setting the tone for RCB's chase.
• Their partnership of 95 runs for the first wicket laid a solid foundation for RCB’s successful run chase.
• Contributions from Rajat Patidar (34 off 16 balls) and Liam Livingstone (15* off 5 balls) ensured RCB reached the target in just 16.2 overs.

KKR’s Innings: A Tale of Two Halves

KKR got off to a flying start, reaching 107-1 in 10 overs after Quinton de Kock fell early. Sunil Narine and captain Ajinkya Rahane (56 off 31 balls) added 103 runs for the second wicket, but Krunal Pandya (3-29) turned the game with a crucial middle-overs spell. Supported by Josh Hazlewood (2-22), Pandya dismantled KKR’s middle order, restricting them to 174-8.

Key Moments:

1. Krunal Pandya’s Spin Magic: Dismissed Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, and Rinku Singh to halt KKR’s momentum.
2. Hazlewood’s Return: The Australian pacer, returning from injury, delivered an economical spell.
3. RCB’s Chase Mastery: Kohli and Salt’s aggression ensured a comfortable victory.

Post-Match Reflections

• Rahane admitted KKR aimed for a 200-plus total, but RCB’s bowling and batting prowess proved superior.
• This win marks a strong statement from RCB, who have long sought their maiden IPL title.
• Kohli, the leading run-scorer in IPL 2024 (741 runs), continued his brilliant form.

Looking Ahead

RCB’s comprehensive win sends a warning signal to other IPL teams, while KKR will look to bounce back in their next fixture.