Kolkata: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) registered a comprehensive 7-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the opening match of IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens. Chasing a target of 175, RCB reached the total in just 16.2 overs, courtesy of a match-winning knock by Virat Kohli.
Kohli Leads RCB to Commanding Win
After being asked to bat first, KKR posted 174/8 in 20 overs. RCB, in response, put up a dominant batting display. Virat Kohli remained unbeaten on 59 off 36 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and three sixes. Phil Salt provided early impetus with a brisk 56 off 31 balls, while captain Rajat Patidar played a crucial cameo, scoring 34 off 16 deliveries.
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KKR’s Explosive Start Fizzles Out
Winning the toss, RCB opted to bowl first, and KKR faced an early blow as opener Quinton de Kock departed for just 4 runs off Josh Hazlewood’s bowling. However, captain Ajinkya Rahane (50 off 25) and Sunil Narine launched a counterattack, adding 90 runs in six overs.
At the halfway mark, KKR had crossed the 100-run mark and seemed poised for a massive total. However, RCB’s bowlers staged a strong comeback, picking up key wickets at regular intervals. The middle order, including Rinku Singh and Andre Russell, failed to capitalize, and KKR could only manage 174/8 in their 20 overs.
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RCB’s Clinical Chase
RCB openers Kohli and Salt ensured a solid start, frustrating KKR’s bowlers. Salt brought up his half-century before being dismissed, but Kohli continued his composed innings, steering RCB to victory.
With this win, RCB starts their IPL 2025 campaign on a high, while KKR will look to bounce back in their next fixture.