Severe Weather Alert Issued for IPL 2025 Opening Match
The highly anticipated opening match of IPL 2025 between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is in jeopardy due to an alarming weather forecast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for March 22, warning of thunderstorms and heavy rain in South Bengal from March 21 to March 24.
According to AccuWeather, Kolkata has a 74% chance of rain on Saturday, with cloud cover reaching 97%. By the evening, the probability of rainfall is expected to rise to 90%, making it almost certain that Eden Gardens will experience showers. Whether the match will see enough overs for a result remains highly uncertain.
Grand Opening Ceremony Still on Schedule
Despite the weather concerns, the IPL 2025 opening ceremony is still set to take place as planned. Bollywood star Disha Patani and celebrated playback singer Shreya Ghoshal are among the top performers scheduled to entertain the crowd. However, if the rain intensifies, there is a possibility that both the ceremony and the match may face delays or even cancellations.
Eden Gardens Match Faces Uncertain Fate
Eden Gardens, one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in India, is known for its electrifying atmosphere. However, the looming thunderstorms threaten to spoil the excitement. Even if the match isn’t entirely abandoned, a full 20-over game may not be possible. If rain disrupts play, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method might come into effect, or worse, the match may end without a result.
KKR vs LSG Match on April 6 Officially Moved to Guwahati
In addition to the opening match uncertainty, another significant schedule change has been confirmed. KKR’s home game against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on April 6 has been shifted from Kolkata to Guwahati due to security concerns.
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snehasish Ganguly explained that the match relocation was necessary due to the Ram Navami festival celebrations in the city. “We informed BCCI about the issue, but there was no scope to reschedule the game in Kolkata. Now, I am hearing that it is going to be shifted to Guwahati,” he told PTI.
KKR vs RCB – A Blockbuster Clash in Doubt
Despite the challenges posed by the weather and scheduling adjustments, the KKR vs RCB showdown remains one of the most anticipated matches of IPL 2025. With Virat Kohli leading RCB and KKR aiming for a winning start at home, fans are hoping that the rain doesn’t completely wash away this exciting contest.
For now, cricket lovers will have to keep an eye on the skies and hope that the 18th season of the IPL kicks off without major disruptions.(cricket betting app)