KKR vs RCB Player Battle for 1st Match of IPL 2025
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set for an electrifying start as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener on March 22. We look at KKR vs RCB Player Battle.
KKR, known for their potent spin attack, will aim to dismantle RCB’s batting lineup, while Bengaluru, powered by experienced match-winners, will look to dominate with their balanced squad.
As the two sides lock horns, some intense individual battles could shape the outcome. The contest between KKR’s spinners and RCB’s top-order batters promises to be a gripping subplot. Let’s dive into the key player battles that could tilt the scales in either team’s favor.
Sunil Narine vs Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli and Sunil Narine have shared a long-standing competition, and another chapter will unfold in this season opener. Surprisingly, Narine has had the upper hand over the RCB legend. In 118 deliveries faced, Kohli has managed just 127 runs at a strike rate of 107.6, while Narine has dismissed him four times. With his deceptive variations, the KKR spinner could once again test Kohli’s patience.
Varun Chakaravarthy – RCB’s batting
KKR’s mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy has been a nightmare for RCB’s batting unit. Since 2020, he has taken 14 wickets against them – more than any other bowler in the league. His economy rate of 6.79 highlights his ability to choke runs, and with more international exposure in the past year, he will be an even bigger threat. RCB’s overseas batters, in particular, will need a solid plan to counter him.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs Sunil Narine
Sunil Narine has been a crucial force for KKR, amassing 488 runs this season with a blistering strike rate of nearly 170 in the powerplay. However, he has often struggled against RCB’s swing specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
The seasoned Indian pacer has dismissed Narine twice in 11 meetings, and what’s more telling is Narine’s strike rate of just 110 against him. With Bhuvneshwar’s ability to swing the new ball, Narine will have to be extra cautious in the early overs.
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