Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) began their IPL 2025 campaign with a resounding seven-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens. Chasing 175, Virat Kohli and Phil Salt starred with the bat, ensuring RCB’s win with 22 balls to spare.
Rahane Shines, but KKR Falls Short
After being put in to bat first, KKR posted 174/8 in their 20 overs. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane led from the front with a brilliant 56 off 31 balls, while Sunil Narine’s aggressive 44 off 26 gave the innings momentum. Young Angkrish Raghuvanshi contributed 30 off 22.
RCB’s bowlers, led by Krunal Pandya (3/29) and Josh Hazlewood (2/22), kept the hosts in check. Yash Dayal and Vaibhav Arora also picked up a wicket each.
Kohli, Salt Lead RCB’s Charge
Chasing 175, RCB openers Virat Kohli and Phil Salt provided a solid foundation. Kohli remained unbeaten on 59 off 36, while Salt’s quickfire 56 off 31 set the tone for a comfortable chase. Rajat Patidar’s explosive 34 off 16 ensured RCB crossed the finish line in just 16.2 overs.
For KKR, Narine, Chakaravarthy, and Vaibhav Arora managed a wicket each but failed to stop RCB’s dominance.
RCB Off to a Flying Start
With this emphatic victory, RCB have announced themselves in IPL 2025. KKR, despite Rahane’s leadership and a competitive total, will need to regroup for their next match.
Match Summary:
- KKR: 174/8 (Ajinkya Rahane 56, Sunil Narine 44, Krunal Pandya 3/29)
- RCB: 177/3 (Virat Kohli 59*, Phil Salt 56, Rajat Patidar 34)
- RCB won by 7 wickets (22 balls left)
RCB will look to build on this momentum, while KKR must bounce back quickly as the IPL season progresses.
