IPl 2025: RCB crush KKR in opener

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) kicked off their IPL 2025 campaign in style, defeating defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by seven wickets at the Eden Gardens. Led by explosive batting performances from Phil Salt and Virat Kohli, RCB chased down KKR’s target of 175 runs in just 16.2 overs.

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Put in to bat first, KKR managed 174/8 in their 20 overs. Skipper Shreyas Iyer played a responsible knock, scoring 45 off 32 balls, while Sunil Narine’s quickfire 38 off 19 balls added impetus. However, RCB’s disciplined bowling attack, led by Mohammed Siraj (2/28) and Karn Sharma (2/30), ensured KKR didn’t breach the 180-run mark.

In response, RCB’s chase got off to a fiery start, thanks to Phil Salt’s aggressive batting. The English wicketkeeper-batter hammered 56 runs off just 31 balls, laced with nine fours and two sixes. Virat Kohli, anchoring the innings, played a masterful knock of 59 off 36 balls, striking four boundaries and three towering sixes. Captain Rajat Patidar also contributed with a blistering 34 off 16 balls, ensuring RCB comfortably sealed the victory.

With this dominant win, RCB have made a strong statement in the tournament. KKR, on the other hand, will look to bounce back in their next game.