The highly anticipated inaugural match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, featuring the reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), is set to take place on Saturday, March 22, at the renowned Eden Gardens. However, the event is under considerable threat due to adverse weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and its neighboring areas, with predictions of rain and thunderstorms potentially jeopardizing both the match and the extravagant opening ceremony planned for the occasion.

KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 match Kolkata weather report today

The IMD has indicated that West Bengal will experience unstable weather, influenced by a trough stretching from central Odisha to Vidarbha, along with a convergence of winds over eastern India, further complicated by an anticyclonic circulation in the lower troposphere over the Bay of Bengal. This atmospheric configuration is likely to result in isolated to scattered light to moderate rainfall, along with thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds affecting various parts of the state, including Kolkata, from March 20 to March 22.

On the day of the IPL opener, March 22, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata has predicted a high likelihood of "thunderstorms with lightning and strong gusty surface winds." The temperature is expected to reach a maximum of 29°C and a minimum of 22°C, which is cooler than usual for this period due to the anticipated cloudy and rainy weather. Humidity levels are expected to be around 65%, contributing to a damp atmosphere that could impact pitch conditions if the match proceeds.

Accuweather.com offers a detailed hourly forecast for Kolkata on March 22:

Morning (6 AM – 12 PM IST): Cloudy conditions with occasional showers are anticipated, with the likelihood of precipitation peaking at 66% around 11 AM. This weather could significantly hinder preparations at Eden Gardens and the opening ceremony, which is scheduled to commence between 6:20 PM and 6:45 PM IST.

Afternoon (12 PM – 6 PM IST): The weather forecast indicates a mix of clouds and sunshine, with the likelihood of rain gradually decreasing. By late afternoon, the chance of precipitation is anticipated to drop to approximately 25%, providing a sense of optimism for both organizers and spectators.

Evening (6 PM – 11 PM IST): With the match scheduled to commence with a toss at 7:00 PM IST and gameplay starting at 7:30 PM IST, the risk of rain further diminishes initially, presenting a 10% chance of precipitation at the time of the toss. Nevertheless, the IMD has issued a thunderstorm warning, and Accuweather forecasts a potential increase in rain probability to 70% by 11 PM IST, indicating that any gameplay may encounter interruptions later in the evening.

The IMD's orange alert, valid until March 22, indicates a significant likelihood of severe weather disruptions, leading the ground staff at Eden Gardens to take precautionary measures by covering the playing field since Thursday. Practice sessions for both KKR and RCB were curtailed on Friday due to sporadic drizzle, which forced players indoors and contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the match.

Impact on the IPL 2025 Opener

The IPL 2025 season is set to begin with a high-profile match between KKR, now captained by Ajinkya Rahane, and RCB, led by Rajat Patidar. KKR, coming off their championship victory in 2024, will aim to defend their title, while RCB seeks to end their lengthy wait for a trophy. This match holds added importance as Kolkata will host the IPL opening ceremony for the first time since 2015, featuring performances by Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and Disha Patani, along with a display of West Bengal’s rich art and culture. The presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is also anticipated, raising the stakes for a successful event.

The impending weather threat poses a risk to these plans. A cancellation due to rain would lead to both teams receiving a single point each, marking a disappointing beginning to the tournament for fans who are looking forward to an exciting clash. Even a shortened match, made possible by the advanced drainage system at Eden Gardens, could shift the balance of the game, particularly if the pitch remains damp, which may benefit bowlers over the powerful batting line-ups that feature stars such as Andre Russell, Quinton de Kock, and Virat Kohli.

Traditionally, Eden Gardens has transitioned from a surface favoring spin bowlers to a batting haven in recent IPL seasons, with 2024 showcasing numerous high-scoring matches. However, continuous rain could revert the conditions to those more advantageous for bowlers, providing pace and bounce if the covers are removed late in the game.

What happens if KKR vs RCB is a washout?

There are no reserve days allocated for any IPL group match. If the KKR vs RCB game is canceled because of rain, both teams will be awarded one point each.

Read Also: RCB’s IPL 2025 Dilemma: Can Livingstone Shine in Faf’s Absence?

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