Josh Hazlewood Strikes Early in IPL 2025 Opener with Quinton de Kock's Wicket
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicked off in grand style at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and right from the first over, we had action-packed moments. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Josh Hazlewood made an immediate impact, picking up the very first wicket of the season, dismissing Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) opener Quinton de Kock in a dramatic fashion.
The much-anticipated season opener began with KKR being put to bat first by RCB’s new captain, Rajat Patidar. The energy in the stadium was electric as the two-time IPL champions looked to set a strong foundation. Quinton de Kock, making his debut for KKR after being bought in the 2025 mega auction, started aggressively. On just the second ball of the match, he stylishly drove Hazlewood for a boundary, sending a strong signal of intent. However, the Aussie speedster wasn’t going to let him dominate so easily.
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The very next delivery created an intense moment as former KKR spinner Suyash Sharma got under a high catch but couldn’t hold on, giving de Kock an early lifeline. But fortune didn't favor the South African for long. A few balls later, Hazlewood delivered a sharp delivery that de Kock edged behind, and RCB’s wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma took an outstanding diving catch to complete the dismissal. Just like that, the first wicket of IPL 2025 was in the bag, and Hazlewood had his man for the fourth time in T20s.
For de Kock, it was an unfortunate end to his debut innings for KKR. He managed only four runs off five balls, with an underwhelming record against Hazlewood continuing. Statistics reveal that in seven T20 innings against the Aussie pacer, de Kock has struggled, averaging just 10.50 with four dismissals.
The dismissal set the tone for what promised to be a thrilling match between two IPL heavyweights. The season opener was further highlighted by an extravagant pre-match ceremony featuring Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who delighted fans with his presence. Accompanied by singer Shreya Ghoshal, actress Disha Patani, and Punjabi rapper Karan Aujla, the entertainment quotient was at an all-time high. The celebrations culminated with a cake-cutting ceremony by BCCI officials, marking the 18th edition of the league.
As the season unfolds, RCB and KKR fans will eagerly watch how their teams perform in the long race ahead. One thing is for sure—Josh Hazlewood has already made a statement, and if his fiery start is anything to go by, IPL 2025 is going to be a rollercoaster ride!
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