IPL 2025: Update. KKR vs. RCB, Highlights, who won the match?

In the opening match of IPL 2025 that was held on 22 March, it was captured by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by a 7-wicket victory. The win was over the defending champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Garden.

KKR’s Innings:

After RCB won the toss, they elected to field first. The inning began on a sticky note as Quinton de Kock was dismissed early by Josh Hazelwood, which left KKR on 9 runs at 1 wicket even after just 3 overs. But then the experienced one came on the field, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), and Sunil Narine stabilised the innings with their partner ship. Rhane scored 56 runs in just 31 balls with a six on the square leg. Making it the first Sic of IPL 2025. Naraine also included 44 runs to the team total of 107 on 2 wickets just after 10 overs.

Even after the strong foundation set by both the batsmen, KKR momentum went down in the second half of the play. The middle order struggled in front of RCB bowlers, especially Krunal Pandya, who got 3 wickets for 29 runs for his magical spell. He was accompanied by Hazelwood, who took 2 wickets for 22. Stopping KKr at a total of 174 for 8 wickets in 20 overs.

RCB Chase:

When the chase began for RCB, the target was 175. The innings started with a great partnership between Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. They set an aggressive midset on the field with the boundaries going over the fields. Phil reached the 56-run inning while Kohli which got a 95-run partnership.

Kohli is playing his 18th IPL season and has played 400 t20 matches with his unmatched skills. In the match, he remained unbeaten on 59 off 36 deliveries. while Rajat Patidar quickly scored 34 runs, backing up the team total. Thus the victory was concluded in style with Livigstone hitting a boundary with 22 balls left.

Key Performance:

Virat Kohli: His unbeaten 59 underscored his pivotal role in RCB’s batting lineup and highlighted his vast experience in t20 cricket.

Phil Salt: The former KKR player showcased his adaptability and aggressive hitting style, making a significant impact with his half century.

Krunal Pandya: His all-round personalities were on display, with standout bowling practices.

Conclusion:

The IPL 2025 opening match provided fans with an amazing display of cricket, setting a high-end performance for the season. RCB won over the defending champion, which not only regained the team’s confidence but also made them ready for the upcoming matches.
As the tournament progresses, both teams may refine the strategies and address areas for improvement of strategies to strengthen their games.