The highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season has officially commenced, with all 10 teams gearing up for an action-packed tournament. As in previous seasons, a total of 74 matches will be played. The season opener, held on March 22, features a thrilling contest between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
KKR vs RCB: Match Overview
Three-time IPL champions KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane this season, are up against RCB, a team that is still in search of its maiden IPL title, under the leadership of Rajat Patidar. In the opening match, RCB captain Patidar won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Batting first, KKR managed to post a total of 174/8 in their allotted 20 overs. In response, RCB’s chase started on a strong note, with explosive batsman Philip Salt providing early momentum. Following his dismissal, Virat Kohli continued the attack, reaching his half-century in just 30 balls. As the chase progressed, RCB stood at 126/2, well on track to reach the target.
Virat Kohli Reaches Historic Milestone
In addition to his blistering performance, Virat Kohli achieved a significant milestone by becoming only the second Indian cricketer to play 400 T20 matches. Former India and RCB wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik was the first Indian to reach this landmark. Kohli’s T20 journey began in 2007 when he represented Delhi, and since then, he has established himself as one of the most prolific T20 batsmen in the world.
Kohli’s Remarkable T20 Career Breakdown
- Total T20 Matches: 400
- Total T20 Runs: 12,866 (including 9 centuries and 97 half-centuries)
- T20I Matches for India: 125, scoring 4,188 runs with 1 century and 38 fifties
- Domestic & Franchise T20s (Delhi & RCB): 274 matches, scoring 8,698 runs
- RCB in IPL: 8,004 runs
- RCB in Champions League: 424 runs
- Delhi in Domestic T20s: 270 runs
As the IPL 2025 season unfolds, Kohli’s milestone further cements his legacy as one of the greatest T20 players. With RCB aiming for their first-ever IPL title, Kohli’s form will be crucial in guiding the team to success.
