Kolkata Knight Riders will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening match of IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata this Saturday. This matchup promises to be thrilling for fans, especially as they will witness some of India's Champions Trophy winners in action.

Virat Kohli will be the main attraction, returning to the spotlight after his significant contribution to India's Champions Trophy triumph as the former captain of RCB.

Phil Salt, who played a pivotal role in KKR's title-winning team last season, has now joined RCB for the upcoming season. RCB acquired the England opener for ₹11.50 crore after KKR chose not to retain him.

In anticipation of the match, Salt shared insights about his relationship with Kohli, noting that they are likely to open the batting together for RCB. “Virat Kohli is a great person. He has a relaxed demeanour, but when it comes to the game, he is a fierce competitor who thrives on challenges and battles. We are getting along well, and I am excited to bat alongside him,” he stated in an interview with RCB's media team.

Salt is particularly eager to regain his form following a lacklustre performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where England did not advance to the semifinals. He scored only 10, 12, and 8 runs during the tournament, leaving his team without a victory.

Additionally, the match will mark Rajat Patidar's debut as the full-time captain of RCB. Ahead of the opener, RCB's head coach Andy Flower commented, “Many of these players have experience captaining state teams, IPL franchises, and international squads. We are very pleased with this, regardless of who is leading the team this year.”

“Having influential players in the squad, who have excelled at the highest levels, instills confidence. This confidence stems from their past successes, both in terms of performance and leadership,” he added.

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