IPL 2025 launch in Jeopardy: weather woes threaten KKR-RCB clash

The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for an exciting start on March 22, 2025, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener. However, looming weather concerns in Kolkata could dampen the much-anticipated clash, with a strong likelihood of cancellation due to relentless rain.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast turbulent weather across South Bengal, including Kolkata, from March 21 to March 24. An orange alert for March 22 warns of heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds, posing a significant threat to the match. A yellow alert follows on March 23, suggesting a slight improvement, though showers are still expected. The wet spell is set to cool down the city, but it may come at the cost of cricket action.

Here’s the weather outlook for Kolkata over the coming days:

• March 20: 24°C – 34°C | Scattered rain and thundershowers with breezy conditions
• March 21: 22°C – 32°C | Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds
• March 22: 22°C – 29°C | Heavy rain and thunderstorms (Match day under serious threat)
• March 23: 23°C – 30°C | Rain with occasional thunderstorms
• March 24: 24°C – 32°C | Mostly cloudy skies
• March 25: 24°C – 33°C | Sunny and clear

Adding intrigue to the fixture, both teams will take the field with fresh leadership. RCB has appointed Rajat Patidar as their new captain, while KKR will be led by Ajinkya Rahane, stepping in for Shreyas Iyer, with Venkatesh Iyer named vice-captain. With the stakes high and new captains eager to make their mark, all eyes will be on the skies above Kolkata as fans hope for a break in the clouds.