IPL 2025 Opener: What Happens if the KKR vs RCB Opener Gets Washed Out Due to Rain?

IPL 2025 Opener: The much-awaited IPL 2025 is all set to kick off with an exciting clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the historic Eden Gardens on Saturday. However, cricket fans might have to keep their fingers crossed as weather conditions threaten to play spoilsport in Kolkata.

As per weather predictions, rain showers are expected on match day, which could dampen the spirits of a packed crowd eagerly waiting to witness the first game of the season. The match, which is a nostalgic repeat of the inaugural 2008 IPL opener, may see delays or even an unfortunate washout.

Heavy Rains Disrupt Preparations

In the lead-up to the game, training sessions for both teams were called off due to continuous rain. Even some of the intra-squad practice matches were abandoned, making the situation even more concerning.

The IPL 2025 opening ceremony, featuring performances by Karan Aujla, Disha Patani, and Shreya Ghoshal, is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM IST, followed by the toss at 7:00 PM IST. But with heavy rainfall predicted, the grand ceremony could also be affected.

Kolkata Weather Forecast for IPL 2025 Opener

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for both Friday and Saturday in Kolkata and surrounding regions. The forecast suggests thunderstorms, gusty winds, lightning, and light to moderate rainfall in areas like Jhargram, Bankura, Howrah, and Purba Bardhaman on Friday.

For Saturday, similar weather conditions are expected in parts of Kolkata, including Nadia, Birbhum, Murshidabad, and both North and South 24 Parganas. With such conditions, the fate of the match remains uncertain.

What Happens if Rain Disrupts the KKR vs RCB Opener?

Unlike the playoffs and final, there is no reserve day for the tournament opener. However, the IPL does allow extra time to complete a rain-affected match.

• The match can be extended by up to an hour beyond the scheduled finish time.
• To ensure a result, at least five overs per side must be bowled.
• The cut-off time to start a five-over match is 10:56 PM IST, with the latest possible finish by 12:06 AM IST.
• The number of overs per team will be reduced depending on how much time is lost due to rain.

Can Eden Gardens’ Drainage System Save the Match?

Eden Gardens is known for having one of the best drainage systems in India. If rain stops well before the match begins, the groundsmen will have enough time to prepare the outfield for play.

Even if there are delays, the superior drainage system at Eden Gardens increases the chances of getting some action on the field compared to other venues in the country.

Final Thoughts: Will the Rain Play Spoilsport?

While cricket lovers are hoping for a thrilling start to IPL 2025, the weather forecast remains a major concern. If the rain gods show some mercy, we might still get a shortened game. However, in case of a washout, both KKR and RCB will share one point each.

Stay tuned for live updates on the weather and match status as IPL 2025 kicks off!