Another season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which has significantly transformed Indian cricket over the past decade and a half, is set to begin on Saturday. This exciting league, lasting for over two months, will kick off at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata and conclude there on May 25. In the opening match, last season’s champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Since the inaugural edition in 2008, this will be the first time these two teams clash in the tournament opener.
Over a thousand matches have been played so far, leaving behind countless thrilling moments. But for fans, it still doesn’t seem enough—their fascination with the IPL remains unshaken. This wealthy T20 league has become a dream competition for cricketers from all around the globe. In fact, tickets for IPL matches are often sold faster than for international matches. The KKR vs RCB clash, known for its past nail-biters, is expected to set the tone for the season, with both teams hoping to start with a win. In their last encounter, the match result was decided by just one run. Playing at their home ground, defending champions KKR are expected to benefit from strong crowd support.
Advanced Technology for No-Balls and Wides
To ensure 100% accuracy in decisions, the BCCI is set to implement new and advanced technology in IPL matches. This includes using a new method for assessing no-balls and wides, especially for short-pitched deliveries. Currently, bowlers are allowed two bouncers per over, and the third is deemed a no-ball. Any ball passing over the batter’s head is called a wide. In the new system, measurements will include not only the batter’s waist height but also shoulder and head height, especially when the batter is in their popping crease. Hawk-Eye technology will continue to assist the third umpire in these decisions.
For IPL 2025, a total of seven new umpires have been included: Swaroopanand Kannur, Abhijit Bhattacharya, Parashar Joshi, Anish Sahasrabuddhe, Keyur Kelkar, Kaushik Gandhi, and Abhijit Bengeri. Veteran umpires S Ravi and CK Nandan have been appointed as umpiring mentors. Additionally, three international umpires—Michael Gough, Chris Gaffaney, and Adrian Holdstock—will officiate this season. Former Sri Lankan off-spinner Kumar Dharmasena and Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary, who officiated in IPL 2024, will now take on commentary roles.
Farewell IPL for Dhoni, Rohit, and Virat?
Many speculate that this 18th edition of the IPL might be the farewell season for three iconic Indian captains—MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. Rohit, aged 37, has led Mumbai Indians to five titles, and Dhoni has achieved the same with Chennai Super Kings. Despite being a top batter, Virat Kohli is yet to win an IPL trophy, either as a player or a captain. Among international players, this season might also be the last for Faf du Plessis, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell.
All eyes will be on RCB once again, as fans hope this might finally be the year they lift the trophy. Phil Salt, who was the second-highest run-scorer for KKR last season, is now part of the RCB squad. Under Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership, KKR will be looking to strategize against an RCB side led by the relatively inexperienced Rajat Patidar. However, weather reports suggest that rain might impact the match on Saturday.
From a cricketing perspective, fans will be closely watching Virat Kohli and Rinku Singh. Much discussion revolves around how Kohli will handle KKR’s spin duo—Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine—who will be crucial with their combined 8 overs. Eden Gardens witnessed high-scoring matches last season, including six instances where teams scored over 200, and even a successful 262-run chase. But due to rain threats on Saturday, fans may end up disappointed if play is affected.
