As the anticipation builds for the IPL 2025 season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on March 22, 2025, weather concerns are looming large.
The match is set to start at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 7 PM IST. However, recent forecasts indicate that rain could play a significant role in determining whether the match proceeds as planned.
Current Weather Forecast for Kolkata for IPL 2025
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Kolkata and surrounding areas due to expected thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.
A trough running from central Odisha to Vidarbha, combined with an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, is contributing to this unstable weather pattern.
Isolated to scattered light or moderate rainfall is anticipated over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, with conditions likely persisting through March 22.
KKR vs RCB Rainfall Predictions:
- March 22 Morning:
- 9 AM: 75% chance of rain
- 12 PM: 49% chance of rain
- Evening Forecast:
- 7 PM: 7% chance of rain
- 10 PM: 7% chance of rain
According to AccuWeather, while the morning may see cloudy skies with a couple of showers, there is a possibility of clearer conditions in the afternoon. The precipitation chances are expected to decrease significantly by evening, which could bode well for the match if the rain holds off.
Impact on KKR vs RCB Match Day
The weather has already affected preparations for the match; players had to cut short their training sessions on March 21 due to persistent rain. The ground staff at Eden Gardens has taken precautionary measures by covering the pitch and outfield since March 20 to mitigate any potential water damage.
Despite the current forecasts indicating a reduced chance of rain during match time, fans and teams alike remain cautious. The situation will be closely monitored leading up to the game.
