IPL 2025 kicks off today

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick off today, marking the start of another season of high-octane T20 cricket. In the inaugural match, Defending Champions Kolkata Knight Riders will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata this evening. The match will begin at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time.

Ahead of the highly-anticipated clash, a glittering opening ceremony will take place this evening. The star-studded opening ceremony will feature performances by Bollywood actor Disha Patani, renowned singer Shreya Ghoshal, and Punjabi sensation Karan Aujla.

The tournament, which will see 10 teams competing across 74 matches, culminates with the final on 25th of May. Group A comprises, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Group B consists, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants.

With the world’s top players gearing up to represent their franchises at the IPL, arguably the biggest and most lucrative T20 tournament in the world, fans can expect intense battles, breathtaking performances, and nail-biting finishes over the coming



weeks.

Meanwhile, ahead of the season opener, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed four major rule changes for the IPL 2025. The updates were finalized during a Captains’, Coaches, and Managers’ meeting held at the BCCI headquarters recently, where representatives from all ten franchises shared their inputs.

One of the biggest changes is the lifting of the saliva ban, allowing bowlers to shine the ball using saliva-a restriction originally imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondly, to counter the effects of dew in evening matches, teams bowling second can now request a ball change after the 10th over, with umpires also having the discretion to replace the ball if necessary.

Also starting this season, a new Code of Conduct will be enforced, introducing a demerit points system and suspension points valid for 36 months. Finally, the Decision Review System (DRS) has been expanded to include height-based no-ball reviews and wide-ball reviews outside the off-stump, utilizing Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking technology for improved accuracy. These changes aim to enhance the fairness and competitiveness of IPL 2025, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.