Virat Kohli’s Milestone Match Ends in Victory as RCB Crushes KKR
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season got off to a spectacular start as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) outclassed defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) with a seven-wicket win at Eden Gardens. A clinical all-round performance from RCB, led by Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, secured a commanding chase after KKR faltered in the latter half of their innings.
KKR’s Bright Start Fizzles Out
Winning the toss, RCB opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on favorable conditions. KKR started positively, thanks to a solid partnership between skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Sunil Narine. The duo stitched together a 103-run stand after an early setback, with Rahane hammering 56 off 31 balls and Narine contributing a quickfire 44.
However, the momentum shifted when RCB’s bowlers tightened their grip. Krunal Pandya (3/29) and Josh Hazlewood (2/22) orchestrated a middle-order collapse, restricting KKR to 174/8 in 20 overs. What seemed like a 200+ total at one stage ended up being a below-par score.
Also Read: CSK vs MI 2025: Squads, Captain, Match Predictions, and Key Battles
RCB’s Chase: Kohli and Salt Steal the Show
RCB’s chase was powered by a blistering opening stand between Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. Kohli, playing his 400th T20 match, led from the front with an unbeaten 59 off 36 balls, anchoring the innings with precision. Salt complemented him with an aggressive 56 off 30 deliveries, dismantling KKR’s bowling attack.
Rajat Patidar (34) and Liam Livingstone (15*) provided the finishing touches as RCB cruised to victory in just 16.2 overs, finishing at 175/3.
Key Highlights & Records
- Virat Kohli’s 400th T20 Match: Kohli was felicitated by BCCI for his incredible milestone in the shortest format.
- RCB’s Bowling Depth: Krunal Pandya’s crucial wickets turned the game in RCB’s favor, exposing KKR’s middle order.
- KKR’s Collapse: After a strong start, the defending champions lost their way, scoring just 71 runs in the last 10 overs.
Captains’ Reactions
KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane admitted his team lost momentum after a strong start. “We were in a good position but lost wickets at crucial junctures. Credit to RCB’s bowlers for the way they pulled things back,” Rahane said.
RCB’s triumph sets the tone for their IPL 2025 campaign, while KKR will need to regroup and bounce back in their next outing.
What’s Next?
RCB will look to continue their winning run in their next match, while KKR will aim to rectify their mistakes and return to form. With the IPL season now underway, fans can expect more thrilling encounters ahead.
