RCB Thrash KKR in IPL 2025 Opener: Kohli, Salt, and Krunal Shine

In a thrilling start to IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by seven wickets at Eden Gardens. RCB chased down KKR's 174/8 with ease, reaching 177/3 in just 17.4 overs.

RCB's Dominant Chase
RCB's new acquisition, Phil Salt, who was part of KKR's title-winning squad last year, made an explosive start. He smashed 56 off 31 balls, punishing his former team. Skipper Virat Kohli anchored the chase with a classy 59* off 36 balls. Rajat Patidar provided the perfect finishing touch with a fiery 34 off 16 balls.

KKR's Struggle Despite Rahane-Narine Partnership
KKR's innings saw a strong middle-over surge, thanks to Ajinkya Rahane (56) and Sunil Narine (44), who added 98 runs in just six overs. However, RCB's bowlers, led by Krunal Pandya (3/29) and Josh Hazlewood (2/22), restricted KKR in the death overs. Krunal's spell, where he dismissed Rahane, Venkatesh Iyer, and Rinku Singh, was the turning point.

Key Moments:

• Hazlewood's Powerplay Impact: The tall pacer returned to IPL action with a bang, using extra bounce to stifle KKR's top order.

• Salt's Onslaught: Salt's aggressive stroke play dismantled KKR's bowling attack during the powerplay.

• Kohli's Finishing Touch: Kohli's composed yet aggressive approach ensured RCB chased down the target comfortably.

RCB's convincing win sets a strong tone for their IPL 2025 campaign, while KKR will look to bounce back in their next match.