Sat Mar 22 16:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Eden Gardens Buzzes Ahead of IPL Opener: Kohli, Iyer, and Russell Steal the Show
Kolkata, India – Eden Gardens was abuzz with activity on Thursday as both Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) held their final practice sessions before the high-stakes IPL opener on Saturday. The atmosphere was electric, with fans flocking to catch a glimpse of their idols, especially Virat Kohli, whose presence outside the stadium drew a massive crowd.
The practice sessions showcased a mix of intense preparation and friendly camaraderie. Former KKR teammate and now RCB’s Venkatesh Iyer shared laughs and playful banter with KKR’s Phil Salt, highlighting the friendly rivalry between the two teams. Kohli himself was seen sharing light moments with Rinku Singh, another KKR player, exchanging smiles and posing for photographs with him and Harshit Rana.
Both teams appeared in high spirits ahead of the clash. Iyer and Singh impressed with powerful shots during their net sessions, while Andre Russell and Rovman Powell honed their skills in the middle. Meanwhile, Kohli spent around 15-20 minutes batting in the nets, showcasing his readiness for the big match.
Eden Gardens is decked out for the IPL opener, with special drone and laser shows planned. The stadium is ready to witness a spectacle, with Kohli leading RCB against the home team KKR. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the Knight Riders looking to overcome the challenge posed by the star-studded Bangalore side.
First Piper 