IPL 2025 opening match, KKR vs RCB: The inaugural match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is to be held between the current champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 22), but the match is being shared on this match.
The opening match of the season has led to a shadow of rain and thunderstorms, and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and surrounding areas. This may cause interruption in both the opening match and the grand opening ceremony before it.
IMD has warned of unstable weather in West Bengal. The IMD said that from March 20 to March 22, parts of the state including Kolkata are expected to receive thunder, lightning and strong winds with sporadic rains. The IMD has predicted rain, causing the enthusiasm of a packed crowd in the Eden Gardens to cool down. On the eve of the inaugural match, the practice sessions of both KKR and RCB were affected by the rain and the inter-team matches of KKR have also been disrupted in the last few days.
IPL organizers will have a special concern about the danger of rain, as this may affect the inauguration ceremony adorned with stars, which includes veteran singer Shreya Ghoshal, rapper Karan Aujla and Bollywood star Disha Patani. The opening ceremony will start at 6 pm and run for 35 minutes, after which the toss will be held at 7 pm.
According to the report, the New Alipur office of the India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Friday and Saturday, which warns of thunderstorms, strong winds, electricity, heavy rain and moderate rainfall in many districts including Kolkata. IMD said, “Nadia, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Eastern Bardhaman and North and South 24 Parganas are expected to receive strong winds, thunderstorms and moderate rains on Saturday.”
What if KKR vs. RCB match was interrupted due to rain?
Unlike the playoffs and finals, there is no reserved day for group-stage matches, including the opener. However, the game can be extended to 60 minutes from the scheduled ending time. Each team will have to play at least five overs to get the result. The cut-off time for the five-over match is 10:56 PM (Indian time) and the match should be completed by 12:06 AM (Indian time) the next day. Over -cuts will begin depending on the period of delay due to rain.
How is the drainage system in Eden Gardens?
The Eden Gardens Stadium has the best drainage system compared to any other stadium in the country. The rain may continue in the morning, but the outfield will be ready after a few hours of break before the toss. The site is capable of resuming matches quickly compared to other stadiums in India.
