Live Report: IPL 2025 Kicks Off with KKR vs RCB: The Live IPL 2025 season is scheduled to start today with an exciting match of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). This is the story that our Buzz24 Times team is reporting live from Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where fans are in large numbers despite the forecasts of rain KKR vs. RCB.
IPL 2025 Live News and Updates: The IPL starts today with KKR, who were the winners in the earlier edition, playing RCB at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, at 7.30 p.m.┬а The first match is scheduled to start with a grand opening ceremony, in line with the customary tradition.┬а This is the first time since the auctions with mega-sized amounts and teams that are significantly different from the last time.┬а There are however concerns about the weather forecast in Kolkata, as IMD is forecasting rain for the region today.┬а The 2019 IPL also comes with some new rules and changes to the rules.┬а The BCCI on Thursday lifted the ban on the use of saliva on the ball.┬а The decision was made at the captains meeting held in Mumbai.┬а The ICC had banned the long-standing method of applying saliva to the ball to prevent step during the COVID-19 pandemic.
IPL 2025 Opening Day: Key Highlights
- Opening Match: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
- Date & Time: March 22, 2025, 7:30 PM IST.
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
- Weather Concern: Potential rain forecast by IMD in Kolkata.
- Context: First match after the mega-auction, featuring potentially revamped squads. Preceded by an opening ceremony.
- Rule Change: BCCI lifts the ban on using saliva to shine the ball.
- Live Coverage: Available on Star Sports, JioCinema (India), and other licensed platforms globally.

IPL 2025 Opening Match: KKR vs RCB тАУ The Showdown Begins
The long-awaited IPL 2025 season begins with a high-stakes game between two teams with a lot of power. Each of KKR as well as RCB has a strong squad this year, and a few important players are set to be stars.
Our team at the stadium has seen enthusiastic fans pouring into the stadium grounds in a sea of banners, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to cheer on their teams.
The KKR vs RCB Rivalry
While not always the most historically dominant rivalry, KKR vs RCB matches often produce thrilling encounters fueled by passionate fanbases and star players. Key matchups to watch could include KKRтАЩs mystery spinners against RCBтАЩs power hitters like Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, or RCBтАЩs pace attack challenging KKRтАЩs dynamic batting lineup. Past encounters have seen high scores, dramatic chases, and memorable individual performances, setting the stage for an exciting opener. (Past Matches: KKR vs RCB: A Look Back)
The key highlights of the match today:
- Match Date: March 22, 2025
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Start Time: 7:30 PM IST
- Live streaming: It is available on broadcasters that are licensed as well as digital platforms (JioCinema & Star Sports in India)
Weather conditions are a big issue, as rain showers are expected during the time of the game. Buzz24 Times reporters have spoken to the stadiumтАЩs staff, who are monitoring the pitchтАЩs conditions along with the drainage to prevent disruption.
Potential Impact of Rain
Rain can significantly impact T20 matches. Potential consequences include: delayed start, reduced overs (using the DLS method), damp pitch conditions affecting bounce and spin, and a slippery outfield making fielding difficult. Both teams will need to adapt their strategies quickly if weather intervenes.
Watch Live Match
IPL 2025 Schedule and Key Matches
Here are some crucial fixtures to keep an eye on in this IPL the 2025 IPL season:
Date | Match | Venue |
March 22, 2025 | KKR vs RCB | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
March 24, 2025 | MI vs CSK | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
March 28, 2025 | DC vs RR | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
April 1, 2025 | PBKS vs SRH | PCA Stadium, Mohali |
April 4, 2025 | RCB vs CSK | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru |
April 8, 2025 | GT vs KKR | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad |
April 12, 2025 | SRH vs MI | Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Hyderabad |
April 18, 2025 | CSK vs DC | M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
April 24, 2025 | RR vs RCB | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur |
May 1, 2025 | MI vs GT | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
Followers can keep track of their favorite teams on different platforms for live scores as well as updates and match highlights. (Full Schedule: IPL 2025 Complete Fixtures)
Teams to Watch in IPL 2025
Buzz24 Times reporters have analyzed team performance, and the teams listed below are predicted to shine this year:
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK): Known for their veteran squad, consistent performances, and MS DhoniтАЩs strategic brilliance (even if not captain).
- Mumbai Indians (MI): A historically dominant team with five titles, known for strong scouting and a powerful lineup, adapting to new captaincy.
- Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB): Boast significant batting power, led by stars like Virat Kohli, always striving for their elusive first title.
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): Former champions known for their aggressive playstyle, strong spin attack, and dynamic all-rounders.
- Gujarat Titans (GT): Impressive performers since their debut, known for strong leadership and balanced team composition.
IPL 2025 format , and groups
IPL 2025 will continue the same format that was used last year, with the 10 teams separated into two groups:
- Group A: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Group B: Mumbai Indians (MI), Gujarat Titans (GT), Delhi Capitals (DC), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
How the Group Format Works
Each team plays the other four teams in its own group twice (home and away). They also play all five teams from the *other* group once. Additionally, they play one designated team from the other group a second time (based on a draw). This ensures every team plays a total of 14 league matches (7 home, 7 away).
The teams will compete in 14 league games, versus the opposition of their group, and one chosen team from another group twice, as well as playing the other four teams twice.
Following the league phase that closes on May 18th, the best four teams will be able to make the playoffs.
The top two players will face each other in Qualifier 1 in a bid to earn an automatic place in the finals at Kolkata in May.
In the meantime, the third and fourth-placed teams battle to stay alive and survive in Eliminator 1, with the winner of the match taking on the winner of Qualifier 1 in Qualifier 2 in order to decide who will be the other finalist of the season.
Playoff Structure Clarified
- Qualifier 1: Team 1 vs Team 2 (Winner goes to Final)
- Eliminator: Team 3 vs Team 4 (Loser is eliminated)
- Qualifier 2: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Eliminator (Winner goes to Final)
- Final: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2
With the auction that was held prior to the IPL 2025, the coming season will also see the 10 teams sporting new squads.
CSK and MI are the most successful teams in IPL history, winning five times each. KKR have won three times.
Alongside the race, it is also the┬аOrange Cap (for the highest run-scorer), while the top wicket-taker will be awarded the Purple Cap.┬а Virat Kohli (RCB) won the Orange Cap last season with 741 runs. Harshal Patel (PBKS) took 24 wickets to win the┬аPurple Cap.
How do I live stream IPL 2025 live
Live streaming of IPL 2025 fixtures via the JioHotstar┬аapp┬аand website in India.┬а IPL matches will be┬аbroadcast┬аlive via the Star Sports Network and Network 18 TV┬аchannels.
Clarification on Broadcasters (India)
For the current cycle (including IPL 2025), the broadcasting rights in India are split:
- Digital Streaming: Exclusively on JioCinema (App and Website) тАУ This is typically FREE for viewers in India. (Disney+ Hotstar no longer streams IPL in India).
- Television Broadcast: Exclusively on the Star Sports Network channels.
(Note: Network18 association might be linked to JioCinema ownership via Viacom18, but Star Sports holds the TV rights).
IPL 2025 Points Table (Live Updates)
Keep yourself updated on the latest points table as the tournament progresses: (Table below is illustrative тАУ Check live sources for real-time updates)
Rank | Team | Played | Won | Lost | NR | Points | NRR |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mumbai Indians | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 8 | +0.550 |
2 | Kolkata Knight Riders | 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 6 | +0.420 |
3 | Chennai Super Kings | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 6 | +0.150 |
4 | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 4 | -0.200 |
5 | Rajasthan Royals | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | +0.100 |
6 | Gujarat Titans | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | -0.050 |
7 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 2 | -0.300 |
8 | Punjab Kings | 5 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 2 | -0.650 |
9 | Delhi Capitals | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 2 | -0.700 |
10 | Lucknow Super Giants | 4 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 2 | -0.800 |
Understanding the Points Table
- Played (Pld): Number of matches played.
- Won (W): Number of matches won.
- Lost (L): Number of matches lost.
- No Result (NR): Matches abandoned without a result (usually due to weather).
- Points (Pts): 2 points for a win, 1 point for No Result, 0 points for a loss.
- Net Run Rate (NRR): A measure of a teamтАЩs performance efficiency (Runs Scored Rate тАУ Runs Conceded Rate). Used as a tie-breaker if points are equal.
IPL 2025 Live Streaming Platforms (India)
Watch the live event of IPL 2025 across a variety of platforms to make it easy to access:
- JioCinema (Digital): FREE live streaming (App & Website) in multiple languages with interactive features.
- Star Sports Network (Television): Live broadcast on various Star Sports channels (SD & HD) with expert commentary in multiple languages.
- (Note: Disney+ Hotstar does NOT stream IPL live in India for this cycle)
- Official IPL Website/App (iplt20.com): Live scores, ball-by-ball commentary, news, and updates.
How to Buy IPL 2025 Tickets
Take these actions to reserve tickets for your IPL 2025 tickets on the internet:
- Visit official ticketing partner websites like BookMyShow, Paytm Insider, or the specific franchiseтАЩs official website (links are usually announced before ticket sales open).
- Choose the city and the specific match you want to attend.
- Select the desired seating category/stand and number of tickets (subject to availability and purchase limits).
- Complete the secure online payment process to confirm your booking. You will receive e-tickets or instructions for collecting physical tickets.
Tips for Buying Tickets
- Act Fast: Tickets for popular matches (like KKR vs RCB, MI vs CSK) sell out very quickly. Be ready when sales open.
- Use Official Partners Only: Avoid unofficial websites or resellers to prevent fraud or inflated prices.
- Check Team Websites: Franchises often announce ticket sales first on their own sites.
Make sure you reserve your tickets in advance in order to secure tickets. IPL matches are notoriously sold quickly.
Stay tuned to the Buzz24 Times for the latest news, such as this KKR vs RCB.
Keep up-to-date with Buzz24 Times for the latest news like this.
Disclaimer: Match schedules, points table standings, player availability, and broadcast details are subject to change. Weather forecasts can be unpredictable. Always refer to official IPL (iplt20.com), BCCI, team, and broadcaster sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The points table provided is illustrative and not real-time.
IPL 2025: Frequently Asked Questions
You can stream IPL 2025 live streaming through JioCinema, Star Sports, Hotstar, and on the IPL official IPL website.
The KKR match against RCB match will begin at 7:30 pm IST on the 22nd of March 2025.
Mumbai Indians hold the record for most IPL titles, with five wins at the championship.