Kolkata Knight Riders Prepare to Defend IPL Title Against RCB The IPL 2025 season opener on March 22 will see defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Eden Gardens. KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, aim to start strong, while RCB, under Rajat Patidar, seek their maiden title, bolstered by new signings but lacking a prominent spinner.123