Kolkata vs Bengaluru 1st match of the season of IPL 2025, Weather forecasts indicate a significant chance of rain on that day

With an "orange alert" issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for Kolkata, rain could play a major role in the IPL 2025 season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Saturday. The forecast of "light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds" increases concerns about possible delays or even a washout. The city has already seen short spells of rain, impacting KKR's preparation, with an intra-squad practice match being cut short earlier in the week. While both teams managed to complete practice sessions despite rain on Wednesday and Thursday, weather conditions remain uncertain leading up to the high-profile match. Fans and organizers will be keeping a close watch, hoping for clear skies at Eden Gardens on match day. The biggest concern is the rain forecast for March 22, the day of the IPL 2025 season opener between KKR and RCB. The Indian Met Department (IMD) predicts that Friday (March 21) and Saturday could see the heaviest rainfall, which puts the match at risk. The fixture is set for a 7:00 PM toss and a 7:30 PM start at Eden Gardens, with the league allowing for a one-hour extension in case of delays. If rain interrupts play significantly, a five-over-a-side match must conclude by midnight. In case of a washout, both teams will be awarded one point each. Additionally, an opening ceremony is planned before the toss, which could also be affected by the weather. After this game, KKR will travel to Guwahati to face Rajasthan Royals on March 26, while RCB will head to Chennai for a clash against CSK on March 28.