The Indian Premier League (IPL) is kicking off its 18th edition on March 22, 2025, with a thrilling match between the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This season promises to be action-packed, with 74 matches across 13 venues, including 12 double-headers.
New Developments and Expectations
The IPL organizers are retaining the same format as last season, with the same 10 teams competing for the title.
They have divided the teams into two groups of five, ensuring each team plays others in their group and one designated opponent from the other group twice, while facing the other four sides once in the league stage.
This format keeps the competition fierce throughout the season.
The first double-header day is happening on March 23, 2025.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in an afternoon game in Hyderabad, followed by a thrilling evening match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Hyderabad is hosting Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator games, while Kolkata will be the venue for the final on May 25, 2025.
The teams are actively preparing for the season, with several key players returning to their squads.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is banking on MS Dhoni’s leadership, while Mumbai Indians (MI) is looking to Rohit Sharma for inspiration.
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is counting on Virat Kohli’s batting prowess,
and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is relying on Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy.
Fans are actively participating in the excitement, with many already booking their tickets for the matches.
