The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to commence with a blockbuster clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens today. However, a looming rain threat has cast a shadow over the season opener, potentially disrupting both the match and the much-anticipated opening ceremony.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and parts of West Bengal, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds through March 22. The unstable weather, driven by a trough from central Odisha to Vidarbha and moisture from the Bay of Bengal, has already disrupted team preparations.

On Friday, persistent drizzle forced KKR and RCB to cut short their practice sessions, with the Eden Gardens pitch kept under covers. Forecasts indicate a high probability of rain in the morning, with a 50-70% chance of showers lingering into the evening, though some reports suggest conditions may improve by late afternoon.

The match, scheduled for a 7:30 PM IST start with the toss at 7:00 PM, follows a star-studded opening ceremony at 6:00 PM featuring Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and Disha Patani. A complete washout would see both teams share one point each, while a shortened game could hinge on Eden Gardens’ advanced drainage system. KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, and RCB, under new captain Rajat Patidar, face an unpredictable start to their campaigns as fans brace for a weather-marred thriller.