IPL 2025 Begins Tonight: KKR vs. RCB in Season Opener..

On Mar 22, 2025

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicks off tonight, bringing fresh leadership, revised regulations, and the same electrifying spectacle. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener, though inclement weather looms as a potential disruptor.

This season introduces notable captaincy changes, with seven teams appointing new skippers—some on an interim basis due to injuries or other circumstances. Among the most unexpected choices is Rajat Patidar, who, despite lacking international T20 experience, will lead RCB, a team featuring Virat Kohli. Meanwhile, Axar Patel takes charge of Delhi Capitals, which includes KL Rahul, eager to reclaim form after a challenging 2024 season.

Shreyas Iyer, last year’s title-winning captain with KKR, now leads Punjab Kings, with Ajinkya Rahane stepping in as KKR’s new captain. Rajasthan Royals will begin their campaign under interim skipper Riyan Parag, as Sanju Samson recovers from a finger injury. For Mumbai Indians, Suryakumar Yadav will captain the side in their opening match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), filling in for Hardik Pandya, who is suspended due to an over-rate violation.

As always, speculation surrounds MS Dhoni’s future. At 43, the legendary CSK captain remains an iconic figure, despite stepping away from international cricket in 2020. Though his finishing prowess may have waned, his leadership, tactical acumen, and match-winning instinct continue to make him invaluable.

In contrast, Rajasthan Royals have introduced 13-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest player in the league’s history. His participation in the tournament, however, remains uncertain.

The two-month-long IPL 2025 runs from March 22 to May 25, with matches held across various venues. Day games commence at 3:30 PM IST (10 AM GMT), while evening fixtures start at 7:30 PM IST (2 PM GMT). The playoffs will feature: