IPL 2025: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt Power RCB To 7-Wicket Victory Over KKR In Tournament Opener

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IPL 2025: Virat Kohli and Phil Salt set the tone for a dominant Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) performance as they defeated defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by seven wickets in the opening match of IPL 2025 at Eden Gardens on Saturday.

Chasing a competitive target of 175, RCB's chase was spearheaded by the experienced Kohli and the explosive Salt.

The duo stitched together a blistering 95-run partnership in just 8.3 overs. Salt's 31-ball 56, laced with nine boundaries and two sixes, gave the visitors a rapid start. Kohli remained unbeaten on 59 off 36 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes, guiding RCB to 177/3 in just 16.2 overs.

Earlier, KKR's innings was built around skipper Ajinkya Rahane's elegant 56 and Sunil Narine's explosive 44 off 26 balls. The pair added 103 runs for the second wicket, propelling KKR to a strong position. However, RCB bowlers fought back admirably. Left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya was the standout performer with figures of 3/29, while Josh Hazlewood picked up two crucial wickets to restrict the hosts to 174/8.

Despite KKR's promising start, RCB's disciplined bowling in the death overs ensured they stayed in control. Angkrish Raghuvanshi chipped in with 30 runs, but the lack of late acceleration proved costly for the defending champions.

In response, Salt's early onslaught put immense pressure on the KKR bowlers, while Kohli anchored the chase with characteristic finesse. Rajat Patidar also contributed a valuable 34, ensuring the visitors crossed the finish line comfortably.

With this emphatic victory, RCB made a strong statement to kick off their IPL 2025 campaign. On the other hand, KKR will look to bounce back quickly in their upcoming matches.

Brief Scores:

Kolkata Knight Riders: 174/8 in 20 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 56, Sunil Narine 44, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 30; Krunal Pandya 3/29, Josh Hazlewood 2 wickets)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 177/3 in 16.2 overs (Phil Salt 56, Virat Kohli 59*, Rajat Patidar 34).