IPL 2025: RCB seeks redemption against KKR in IPL 18 opener

The countdown to IPL Season 18 is over, and the much-anticipated opening match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens has the cricket world buzzing. With a history of fierce encounters, RCB has five bitter memories against KKR that captain Rajat Patidar must keep in mind as they seek redemption.

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A Look Back at RCB’s Painful Clashes with KKR

2008 (Match 1): The inaugural IPL match saw KKR's Brendon McCullum smash an unforgettable 158*, leaving RCB in shambles at 82 all out.

2013 (Match 12): The infamous Kohli-Gambhir altercation overshadowed the game, though Chris Gayle’s 85 powered RCB to victory.

2017 (Match 27): RCB registered their lowest-ever IPL total—just 49 runs—while chasing a modest 132 at Eden Gardens.

2019 (Match 17): Despite posting 205 runs, RCB crumbled as Andre Russell’s blistering 48 off 13 balls snatched victory for KKR.

2024 (Match 36): A dramatic last-over thriller saw RCB fall short by just two runs, despite Karan Sharma’s valiant effort.

With KKR historically leading the head-to-head record, RCB will be eager to turn the tide. The stage is set for a fiery showdown, and fans expect nothing less than a high-voltage clash in the IPL 18 opener.