In the first match of IPL 2025, RCB vs KKR, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 7 wickets. The match took place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, and RCB chased down the target of 175 runs in just 16.2 overs.
Krunal Pandya and Josh Hazlewood Shine With the Ball
KKR started strong but couldn’t build momentum. Krunal Pandya took 3 important wickets for 29 runs, while Josh Hazlewood picked up 2 wickets for just 22 runs. KKR ended their innings at 174/8 in 20 overs. The only bright spot for KKR was captain Ajinkya Rahane’s quick half-century.
Virat Kohli and Phil Salt Lead RCB’s Chase
Phil Salt and Virat Kohli gave RCB a dream start. Salt smashed a quick 56 off 31 balls with eight boundaries and two sixes. Kohli anchored the innings perfectly, scoring an unbeaten 59 from 36 balls. Rajat Patidar also played a quick-fire innings of 34 off 16 balls, ensuring RCB reached the target comfortably.
Virat Kohli Reaches 1000 Runs vs KKR
Virat Kohli made history by becoming the third player to score more than 1,000 runs against KKR in IPL. Only David Warner and Rohit Sharma have done this before. Kohli is also the only player to have scored 1000+ runs against four different IPL teams.
RCB Ends Losing Streak Against KKR
This was a big win for RCB, as they had lost their last four matches against KKR. This victory also gave a huge boost to RCB’s net run rate and confidence for the upcoming matches.
Next Matches in IPL 2025
- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals (March 23, 3:30 PM IST)
- Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (March 23, 7:30 PM IST)
Match Summary:
- KKR: 174/8 (20 overs) – Ajinkya Rahane 54 (30), Krunal Pandya 3/29
- RCB: 177/3 (16.2 overs) – Phil Salt 56 (31), Virat Kohli 59* (36)
Key Highlights for SEO:
- RCB beats KKR by 7 wickets in IPL 2025 opener.
- Virat Kohli crosses 1000 runs vs KKR in IPL history.
- Krunal Pandya named Player of the Match for taking 3 key wickets.
- RCB breaks four-match losing streak against KKR.
- Upcoming matches: SRH vs RR and CSK vs MI.
