Sat Mar 22 03:30:00 UTC 2025: ## IPL 2025 Kicks Off with Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore at Eden Gardens

**Kolkata, India** – The Indian Premier League (IPL) is back, and Cricbuzz Pulse is ready to provide comprehensive coverage of the tournament. The season begins at the Eden Gardens with a clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Both teams boast new captains: Ajinkya Rahane for KKR and Rajat Patidar for RCB. While a high-scoring match is anticipated, the threat of rain looms.

Despite no longer captaining RCB or playing international T20s, Virat Kohli remains a key player and major draw for the opening match. Cricbuzz reporter Pratyush Sinha highlights Kohli’s dedication, observing his intense practice sessions even in inclement weather.

This year’s IPL introduces rule changes. The saliva ban, implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been lifted. To combat the effects of dew, a second ball will be introduced from the 11th over of the second innings – a change supported by experts Andy Flower and Varun Chakaravarthy.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya will miss his team’s opening game due to a one-match ban for slow over-rate incurred in the final match of IPL 2024. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the team in his absence. However, stricter enforcement of the slow over-rate rule is expected this season. Cricbuzz will provide continuous updates and analysis throughout the two-month tournament.

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