The much-awaited IPL 2025 opener between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to be hosted at Eden Gardens on March 22, is facing a serious threat from the weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and the surrounding area, with predictions of rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds during the day. The opening ceremony, to be held prior to the match, is also vulnerable to disruption.
Weather Conditions & Forecast
Unstable weather over West Bengal is caused by a trough lying over Odisha and Vidarbha, a wind confluence over east India, and an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. All these are likely to cause light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gale-force winds.
Also Read: KKR Vs RCB, IPL 2025: Here’s Predicted Playing XI For Kolkata Knight Riders In 1st Match!
Kolkata’s Weather On March 22
Morning (6 AM – 12 PM IST): Cloudy conditions with light rains, with a maximum chance of rain at 66% at 11 AM. Delays in groundwork and opening ceremony arrangements.
Afternoon (12 PM – 6 PM IST): Periods of sun and clouds with decreasing chances of rain to 25%. Conditions could improve for a timely commencement.
Evening (6 PM – 11 PM IST): Toss at 7:00 PM IST, with a start of play at 7:30 PM IST. Chances of rain are low at the beginning of 10%, but rise to 70% at 11 PM, which poses questions regarding possible interruptions in the match.
Effect Of Weather On The Match & Field Conditions
The Eden Gardens groundstaff have covered the playing surface since Thursday to protect the pitch. Practice sessions for both teams were cut short on Friday due to drizzle, forcing players indoors. Persistent rain could alter pitch behavior, making it more bowler-friendly despite its reputation as a batting paradise in recent IPL seasons. Moisture under covers could help pacers generate extra bounce and swing, impacting power-hitters like Andre Russell, Quinton de Kock, and Virat Kohli.
Also Read: Hyderabad Weather Update: IMD Issues Big Warning! Will SRH Vs RR Match Be Washed Out?
What If KKR vs RCB Match Gets Washed Out?
There are no reserve days for IPL league-stage matches. If rain totally rains out the match, both teams will get one point each. A shortened match is still possible owing to Eden Gardens’ sophisticated drainage system, but unpredictable weather might still have a say in determining the season opener.
