IPL 2025: Match 1, KKR vs RCB Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today’s IPL Match?

The much-awaited IPL 2025 season is finally here, and it kicks off with a thrilling clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The two teams will battle it out in Match 1 of IPL 2025 at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST.

Match Overview – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League promises an electrifying start with KKR, the defending champions, locking horns with RCB, a team still hunting for their maiden title.

IPL Match 2025 Today: KKR vs RCB Head-to-Head Records, Stats, When and Where to Watch Live Streaming

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Team Preview

KKR enters this season with Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain, following the departure of Shreyas Iyer. The squad remains largely unchanged from their successful IPL 2024 campaign, where they dominated the latter half and clinched their third championship. With a solid batting lineup and a formidable bowling attack, KKR will look to start their title defense with a statement win.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Team Preview

RCB, still in search of their elusive first IPL trophy, will be led by Rajat Patidar this season. With Virat Kohli remaining the backbone of their batting lineup, the team will rely heavily on their experienced players to turn their fortunes around. RCB reached the playoffs last year but failed to go all the way. This season, they aim to break their title drought with a stronger squad.

KKR vs RCB Predicted Playing 11

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Predicted Playing XI:

1. Ajinkya Rahane (C)
2. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK)
3. Venkatesh Iyer
4. Nitish Rana
5. Andre Russell
6. Rinku Singh
7. Sunil Narine
8. Shardul Thakur
9. Lockie Ferguson
10. Varun Chakravarthy
11. Suyash Sharma

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Predicted Playing XI:

1. Rajat Patidar (C)
2. Virat Kohli
3. Faf du Plessis
4. Glenn Maxwell
5. Dinesh Karthik (WK)
6. Mahipal Lomror
7. Wanindu Hasaranga
8. Mohammed Siraj
9. Reece Topley
10. Harshal Patel
11. Karn Sharma

Who Will Win 1st IPL Match Between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru?

KKR, playing on their home ground, have a strong track record at Eden Gardens. Their balanced squad and experienced T20 players give them an edge. However, RCB’s firepower in batting, led by Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, could pose a significant challenge. The match is expected to be a close contest, but KKR holds a slight advantage due to their all-round depth.

KKR vs RCB Probable Best Performers

Probable Best Batsman – Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has been a consistent performer in the IPL, and with his ability to anchor the innings, he is expected to be the standout batsman for RCB.

Probable Best Bowler – Varun Chakravarthy

Varun Chakravarthy has a stellar record at Eden Gardens and is likely to be the biggest threat to RCB’s batting lineup with his mystery spin.

KKR vs RCB Match Prediction – Who Has the Edge?

Considering KKR’s depth in all departments and their strong record at Eden Gardens, they are the favorites to win the opening match of IPL 2025. However, if RCB’s top order fires, they can turn the game in their favor. The toss will also play a crucial role, as the team batting second may have an advantage under lights.

Match Prediction: Kolkata Knight Riders to Win

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis as the IPL 2025 season unfolds!