How KKR and RCB stack up for IPL 2025 opener

The defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders host Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening match of the 2025 Indian Premier League season on Saturday at the Eden Gardens.
Here's a look at how the two teams shape up for the opening face-off:
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ROYAL CHALLENGERS BENGALURU
Strengths: Like most teams in IPL, a formidable batting lineup. Virat Kohli, Phil Salt and newly-appointed skipper Rajat Patidar form the top order. Liam Livingstone, Tim David, Krunal Pandya and Romario Shepherd add further dynamism. With the acquisitions of Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rasikh Salam, RCB’s bowling unit has gained muchneeded reliability, particularly in death overs.

Weaknesses: Lack of a wicket-taking spinner. Krunal Pandya, at best, is a run-stopping option, while Suyash Sharma is yet to prove his credentials on the big stage. Patidar’s appointment as captain introduces leadership potential but also poses challenges due to his limited experience in such a role. The ongoing pursuit of their first IPL title adds pressure, which could impact team performance.
X-Factor: Virat Kohli. Has the hunger to win an IPL title for RCB, and this time in several years has the squad that can go the distance.
KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS
Strengths: Have successfully retained a strong core of players, including Varun Chakravarthy, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, who have been pivotal in their previous successes. Narine and Chakravarthy gives KKR one of the most formidable spin bowling units in the league. With the likes of Russell, Rinku, Iyer and Rovman Powell, KKR possesses exceptional batting firepower in the death overs.

Weaknesses: The middle-order, featuring Ajinkya Rahane and others, lacks explosiveness. With Rahane stepping in as captain, there may be uncertainties regarding leadership dynamics.
X-Factor: Varun Chakravarthy. The ‘mystery spinner’ has been in top-notch form and will be a major weapon for KKR.