New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) started their IPL 2025 campaign with a commanding 7-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens. Batting first, KKR posted a competitive total of 174 runs. However, RCB chased down the target effortlessly with 7 wickets in hand, thanks to stellar performances from Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. In the bowling department, Krunal Pandya turned the game in RCB’s favor with his crucial spell.
Virat Kohli and Phil Salt Shine for RCB
Virat Kohli, the Orange Cap winner of IPL 2024, carried his brilliant form into IPL 2025. He played a composed knock of 59 runs off 36 balls, ensuring a strong start for RCB. Kohli, along with explosive opener Phil Salt, forged a 95-run opening partnership. Salt was in sensational touch, scoring a blistering 56 off just 31 deliveries, propelling RCB to 80 runs in the powerplay.
RCB captain Rajat Patidar also played a crucial role, smashing 34 runs off just 16 balls. Liam Livingstone sealed the victory with a winning shot off Spencer Johnson.
Virat Kohli Crosses 1000 Runs Against KKR
Kohli achieved another milestone by completing 1,000 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders in just 33 innings. In IPL history, the record for the most runs against a single team is held by David Warner, who has scored 1,134 runs against Punjab Kings.
KKR Bowlers Struggle Against RCB Batting Lineup
On the bowling front, KKR’s attack failed to contain RCB’s power-packed lineup. Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy, and Sunil Narine picked up one wicket each. Except for Narine, all KKR bowlers leaked runs at an economy rate of over 10.
RCB’s Statement Win in IPL 2025
With this emphatic victory, RCB has made a strong statement in IPL 2025. Virat Kohli’s consistency, Phil Salt’s aggressive batting, and Krunal Pandya’s impactful bowling set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season for Bangalore.