Islamabad, 21 March 2025: The much-anticipated opening match of the 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is in jeopardy, with heavy rainfall forecasted for the city on March 22.
The opening ceremony, featuring performances by renowned artists Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and actress Disha Patani, is also at risk due to adverse weather conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and rainfall in Kolkata, expected to last until the day of the match.
According to the IMD, the ongoing anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal has led to a disturbance that could bring about isolated to scattered light or moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim.
An orange alert has been issued for parts of West Bengal, advising caution due to the possibility of severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rain.
The IMD further stated that a trough running from central Odisha to Vidarbha, combined with wind confluence in the region, will exacerbate the weather conditions, making a washout likely for the much-awaited IPL opener.
The IPL clash holds particular significance, as both teams will debut new captains. Rajat Patidar takes over leadership duties for RCB, while Ajinkya Rahane steps in as KKR’s new captain, replacing Shreyas Iyer.
KKR, after a disappointing few years, enter the new season with renewed hope following their triumph in the 2024 IPL, while RCB look to bounce back from their fourth-place finish in the previous season.
Fans now anxiously await updates, as the weather will ultimately decide the fate of the IPL 2025 opener.
