Here's why IPL opener between KKR, RCB might be abandoned

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on Saturday with a big clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), led by Virat Kohli. The opening ceremony will feature performances from popular artists like Disha Patani and Shreya Ghoshal.

However, just a day before the match, worrying news has emerged from Kolkata. The opening game is in danger of being completely washed out due to bad weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for 22 March, warning of thunderstorms and heavy rain in South Bengal. A Yellow Alert has been issued for Sunday.

According to Accuweather, there is a 74 percent chance of rain in Kolkata on Saturday, with 97percent cloud cover. The situation is expected to worsen in the evening, with rain chances rising to 90 percent. Given these conditions, there is a high possibility of heavy showers at Eden Gardens, making it uncertain whether enough overs will be played for a result.

Apart from the rain concerns, another match at Eden Gardens is already being moved. KKR’s home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on 6 April is set to be shifted to Guwahati amid security concerns with Navami celebrations in Kolkata on that day.

Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly confirmed that Kolkata Police had informed them they would not be able to provide security for the match. Since rescheduling the game in the city is not possible, it will now likely take place in Guwahati.

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari mentioned that over 20,000 Ram Navami processions are planned across West Bengal, making it difficult to manage security for the IPL match.

The KKR vs LSG match is expected to have a full crowd, as both teams enjoy strong local support. However, fans will now have to watch this exciting contest in a different city.