IPL 2025, KKR vs RCB, Match 1: Rain likely to play spoilsport in the opening clash

The high-octane opening clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is scheduled for March 22 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. However, the match might get cancelled due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms predicted on that day.

Rain threat looms over IPL 2025 season opener

With IPL 2025 set to begin with a grand spectacle, cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the epic clash between KKR and RCB. However, unfavourable weather conditions could potentially result in a complete washout. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kolkata is expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and significant rainfall until March 22 due to an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal.

The IMD stated, “A trough runs from central Odisha to Vidarbha, and there is wind confluence over east and adjoining central India. Due to this and an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal at lower tropospheric levels, isolated to scattered light or moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds are likely over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on March 20 and 21.”

Orange alert issued for Kolkata and surrounding regions

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata has also issued an orange alert for various parts of West Bengal from March 20-22. This means that there would be high chances of heavy rainfall and intense thunderstorms, which can play spoilsport in the IPL opener.

A statement from the regional weather forecasting agency said, “Due to the presence of favourable wind patterns and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, thunderstorms with lightning and strong gusty surface winds are very likely to occur in some districts of West Bengal during March 20-22.”

Star-studded opening ceremony also at risk of getting abandoned

The IPL opener was supposed to begin with a dazzling opening ceremony featuring performances by popular singer Shreya Ghoshal, Punjabi sensation Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani. However, the ongoing weather forecast puts these performances at high risk of being cancelled.

If the weather forecast turns out to be true, there would be a high possibility of match getting abandoned without a ball being bowled. In that case, both teams will be rewarded with one point each in the league standings.