Virat Kohli's Masterclass Leads RCB to Victory Over KKR in IPL 2025 Opener
What a way to kick off IPL 2025! The highly anticipated opening match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens turned out to be a thrilling contest. And guess what? It was Virat Kohli who once again proved why he is one of the best in the game, leading his team to a dominant seven-wicket victory over the defending champions.
KKR started off on a strong note, with Ajinkya Rahane and Sunil Narine putting on a formidable 103-run partnership after the early loss of Quinton de Kock. Rahane played a fantastic knock of 56 off just 31 balls, while Narine chipped in with a quickfire 44. At 107-1 in just 10 overs, KKR looked set for a massive total.
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But then came the turning point of the match—Krunal Pandya's brilliant spell of 3-29. He single-handedly dismantled KKR’s middle order, dismissing Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, and Rinku Singh in quick succession. This crucial phase of the game put the brakes on KKR’s innings, restricting them to 174-8 in their allotted 20 overs. Josh Hazlewood also played a key role with his tight bowling, picking up 2-22.
With a target of 175, RCB needed a solid start—and they got exactly that. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt set the tone with a blazing 95-run opening stand. Salt was in a destructive mood, smashing 56 off just 31 balls, while Kohli showcased his trademark class with an unbeaten 59 off 36 deliveries. New captain Rajat Patidar added the finishing touches with a quick 34 off 16 balls, and Liam Livingstone sealed the game with a few lusty blows, finishing on 15 not out from just five balls.
RCB chased down the target comfortably in 16.2 overs, sending a strong message to the rest of the league. For KKR, it was a disappointing result, especially after such a promising start. Rahane admitted post-match that they were hoping to post 200+, but Pandya’s spell turned the game on its head.
For RCB fans, this was the perfect start to their campaign. They had reached the eliminator last season, only to be knocked out by Rajasthan Royals. But with Kohli leading from the front and their bowling unit looking sharp, could this be the year RCB finally clinches their maiden IPL title? One thing’s for sure—their intent in this game was clear, and they’re here to dominate!
Stay tuned for more IPL 2025 action. Next up, Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Rajasthan Royals, followed by a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Don’t miss it!
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