The IPL 2025 season is all set to begin with a blockbuster opening match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This highly anticipated face-off revives their historic 2008 season opener, where KKR crushed RCB by 140 runs, courtesy of Brendon McCullum’s unforgettable 158 off 73 balls*. As both teams gear up to make a strong statement, fans can expect a thrilling start to the tournament . In this article we will share with you the complete history of the first match.
IPL Season Openers: Complete Match History and Results
The IPL has witnessed many unforgettable opening matches over the years. Here’s a detailed look at who defeated whom and when, and in whose favor the result went:
IPL Opening Match Results by Year
| Year | Match | Winner | Margin | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | 140 runs | Chinnaswamy, Bangalore |
| 2009 | CSK vs MI | MI | 19 runs | Newlands, Cape Town |
| 2010 | DC vs KKR | KKR | 11 runs | Dr. DY Patil, Navi Mumbai |
| 2011 | CSK vs KKR | CSK | 2 runs | MA Chidambaram, Chennai |
| 2012 | CSK vs MI | MI | 8 wickets | MA Chidambaram, Chennai |
| 2013 | KKR vs DD | KKR | 6 wickets | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| 2014 | MI vs KKR | KKR | 41 runs | Sheikh Zayed, Abu Dhabi |
| 2015 | KKR vs MI | KKR | 7 wickets | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| 2016 | MI vs RPS | RPS | 9 wickets | Wankhede, Mumbai |
| 2017 | SRH vs RCB | SRH | 35 runs | Rajiv Gandhi, Hyderabad |
| 2018 | MI vs CSK | CSK | 1 wicket | Wankhede, Mumbai |
| 2019 | CSK vs RCB | CSK | 7 wickets | MA Chidambaram, Chennai |
| 2020 | MI vs CSK | CSK | 5 wickets | Sheikh Zayed, Abu Dhabi |
| 2021 | MI vs RCB | RCB | 2 wickets | MA Chidambaram, Chennai |
| 2022 | CSK vs KKR | KKR | 6 wickets | Wankhede, Mumbai |
| 2023 | GT vs CSK | GT | 5 wickets | Narendra Modi, Ahmedabad |
| 2024 | CSK vs RCB | CSK | 6 wickets | MA Chidambaram, Chennai |
KKR vs. RCB: A Rivalry That Keeps Fans on Edge
The IPL 2025 season opener will reignite one of the most thrilling rivalries in IPL history. KKR, the defending champions, aim for a strong start, while RCB is determined to turn the tables and secure a memorable win.
Key Players to Watch in IPL 2025 Season Opener
- Kolkata Knight Riders: Shreyas Iyer (C), Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis (C), Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj
Head-to-Head Stats (Overall in IPL)
- Total Matches: 32
- KKR Wins: 18
- RCB Wins: 14
- Biggest KKR Win: 140 runs (2008)
- Biggest RCB Win: 10 wickets (2018)
What to Expect in IPL 2025’s Opening Match?
- Pitch Report: Eden Gardens is a batting paradise but can assist spinners as the game progresses.
- Weather Conditions: No rain expected, ensuring a smooth match.
- Strategy Outlook: KKR will rely on their power hitters and all-rounders, while RCB will look to their top-order firepower, led by Virat Kohli.
Final Word: Who Will Dominate the IPL 2025 Opener?
As the countdown to IPL 2025 begins, all eyes are on the KKR vs. RCB showdown. Will KKR continue their dominance, or can RCB script a new chapter in their opening match history? Stay tuned for an action-packed season opener at Eden Gardens!
