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Rain threat looms over IPL 2025 opener as Eden Gardens hosts grand opening ceremony

Kolkata’s Eden Gardens is set to host the IPL 2025 opening ceremony on March 22, but rain forecasts may impact both the event and the KKR vs RCB season opener.

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IPL 2025, KKR vs LSG, Eden Gardens, IPL match reschedule, BCCI, Kolkata security, Ram Navami, IPL opening ceremony, Suvendu Adhikari

As the excitement builds for IPL 2025, cricket fans are set to witness a grand opening ceremony at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 22. Scheduled to begin at 6 PM IST, this event will mark the official kick-off to the new season of the Indian Premier League, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the tournament opener right after.

This is the first time since 2015 that Kolkata is hosting the IPL’s opening ceremony, making it a special occasion for local fans. Interestingly, this season will feature opening celebrations across all 13 venues, adding a unique flair to the tournament.

However, weather concerns are casting a shadow over the event. Recent showers in Kolkata have raised apprehensions, and forecasts suggest rain is expected around 9 AM on match day. If rain continues later into the day, it may disrupt both the ceremony and the much-anticipated clash between KKR and RCB.

Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Snenashish Ganguly confirmed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has allotted a 35-minute window for the opening performance. “The rest will be like every year,” he added, suggesting that the focus will remain on the cricketing action post the opening celebrations.

Meanwhile, teams are making final preparations. Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy spoke about the importance of forming a strong core early in the tournament. “If we are able to get a set core in the first 3 matches, then we have great chances ahead in this season,” he noted.

Ahead of the season opener, all team captains participated in the official pre-season photoshoot, including prominent names like Pat Cummins, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, and Ajinkya Rahane.

As fans look forward to big performances, attention will also be on star players like Virat Kohli, who has scored 962 runs against KKR, including one century and six half-centuries. His RCB teammate, David Warner, holds an even more impressive record with 1093 runs against KKR, averaging 43.72.

While the stage is set and expectations are sky-high, all eyes will now be on the skies over Kolkata, hoping the weather does not dampen the IPL 2025 curtain raiser.

Cricket news

Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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Guwahati weather poses threat to RR vs MI blockbuster as rain delays toss

The IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians faces a delay as the Guwahati weather brings persistent rain to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

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Guwahati weather

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) has hit a weather hurdle. Scheduled to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the toss for Match 13 has been officially delayed due to persistent rain in the city.

Rain intensifies at Barsapara Stadium

The Guwahati weather has taken a turn for the worse as heavy drizzle forced the groundstaff to keep the pitch and square under covers. While the rain had momentarily eased, allowing for a brief inspection, it returned shortly after, frustrating both fans and players. According to media reports, the probability of rain during match hours has surged to nearly 50%, a significant increase from earlier forecasts.

Cut-off time and over reductions

As the clock ticks, the pressure on the match officials increases. Overs were scheduled to start being reduced from 8:40 PM IST. For those hoping for at least a shortened game, the cut-off time for a minimum five-over-a-side contest has been established at 10:56 PM IST. The city remains under a weather alert, with cloud cover expected to be a major factor throughout the evening.

High-stakes encounter on hold

Rajasthan Royals enter this game with a perfect record, having won their first two matches of the season. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, are looking to bounce back after a mixed start. A key highlight of this match is the potential battle between 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the experienced Jasprit Bumrah.

Historically, the two teams share a fierce rivalry, with Mumbai holding a slight edge with 16 wins compared to Rajasthan’s 14 in their 31 previous meetings.

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