KKR vs RCB IPL 2025 Opener Faces Weather Threat

The IPL 2025 opener between KKR and RCB in Kolkata faces potential abandonment due to severe weather forecasts, with a high chance of rain predicted. Former MI coach Mark Boucher believes Hardik Pandya will thrive this season after overcoming challenges. The ban on saliva has been lifted, and two balls will be used in night games. Young players like Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal are also in focus for the upcoming tournament.

The IPL 2025 opener between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Kolkata is at risk of being abandoned due to severe weather forecasts. The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for March 22, predicting thunderstorms and rain across South Bengal from Thursday to Sunday. Kolkata is expected to experience a 74% chance of rain on Saturday, with cloud cover anticipated to reach 97%. The evening forecast suggests a 90% likelihood of rainfall, raising concerns about whether KKR and RCB will be able to play enough overs to secure a result.

In other developments, former Mumbai Indians coach Mark Boucher has expressed confidence that Hardik Pandya will excel in IPL 2025 following a challenging previous season. Pandya, who took over as MI skipper from Rohit Sharma, faced criticism from fans but has since made significant contributions to India`s T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy victories. Boucher describes Pandya as a "battle-hardened" cricketer who has successfully navigated adversity.

Additionally, the ban on using saliva on the ball has been lifted for IPL 2025, following agreement among the majority of captains. This marks a significant shift as it is the first major cricket competition to remove this COVID-19 related restriction. To address the dew factor, two balls will be utilized in the second innings of night games. Former India player Harbhajan Singh has welcomed these changes and is particularly focused on young Indian talents in the upcoming IPL, including Riyan Parag, who will captain Rajasthan Royals in the first three matches. Meanwhile, Yashasvi Jaiswal, despite his impressive performances in Tests, faces tough competition in the T20I setup with established openers like Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma in form for India. For more insights on IPL, visit IPL and for cricket updates, check cricket.

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