Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower expresses strong confidence in his team's prospects for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Consequently, it is not surprising that Flower does not perceive the opening match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as "intimidating." During the pre-match press conference, when asked if the encounter with the reigning champions would pose a challenge for his team, the former Zimbabwean cricketer shifted the narrative.

In his discussion with the media, Flower was questioned about whether the match against KKR would be "daunting" for RCB. He countered by suggesting that it would actually be challenging for the Ajinkya Rahane-led team to face his side.

"Indeed, it is quite daunting. For KKR! I hope it turns into an El Clasico tomorrow night. That would be an excellent way to kick off IPL 2025," Flower remarked to the journalist.

Historically, KKR holds an advantage in their head-to-head encounters with RCB, having won 20 out of the 34 matches played. In their last five meetings, KKR has emerged victorious four times, with RCB's last win over the Kolkata franchise occurring in IPL 2022.

Both teams will feature new captains in IPL 2025, with Rahane leading the defending champions and Rajat Patidar at the helm for the Bengaluru side.

Rajat Patidar “excited” to be leading RCB

Rajat Patidar is "thrilled" to take the helm of RCB. Andy Flower expressed that Patidar is genuinely enthusiastic about leading the team in the 18th season of the IPL. The head coach emphasized that the entire management supports Rajat and his vision for advancing the team.

"We were mindful of assembling a team with considerable experience during our recruitment process, which will provide substantial support to Rajat. He is truly eager to embrace this challenge, and we are fully behind him," he remarked.

Acknowledging the formidable spin attack of KKR, Flower recognized the potential threat posed by spin bowlers Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy.

"Chakravarthy is currently in excellent form, and we are well aware of Narine's capabilities over the years. However, this is precisely why we compete at this level—to challenge ourselves against the best in the world. This aspect is one of the most thrilling and fulfilling elements of playing international or IPL cricket, which maintains a standard akin to that of international cricket, along with the excitement and energy that comes from competing in top-tier cricket in India," he stated.

Flower also addressed the trend of rising scores in the IPL, attributing it to the evolving physicality and mindset of contemporary batters.

"Many batters are becoming larger and stronger, recognizing the significance of this evolution. Nevertheless, there remains a place in the game for players like Virat Kohli. He is undoubtedly a fit and strong young man, and there is still room for high-quality, astute cricketers like him," he concluded.

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