The IPL 2025 resumed on 17th May after a brief suspension due to the India-Pakistan conflict, with a high-stakes clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). RCB, in red-hot form, sits comfortably in 2nd place on the points table with 8 wins from 11 matches and has already secured a playoff spot. In contrast, KKR, struggling to find momentum, is placed 6th with just 5 wins from 12 games. With only two league games left, KKR desperately needs a win to stay in the playoff race. The match promises intensity, with both teams eyeing different stakes—momentum for RCB and survival for KKR.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can catch the RCB Vs KKR live on Star Sports Network in India, Fox Sports in Australia, and Ten Sports in Pakistan. The match will commence at 7:00 pm PST, 7:30 pm IST, 2:00 pm GMT.
Team Analysis
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) boasts a powerful batting lineup with stars like Virat Kohli, Tim David, and Liam Livingstone providing consistency and aggression. Their middle order has improved with young talents stepping up. The epic batting lineup is the key strength of the Bangalore squad in this match and we won’t be surprised if this lethal batting lineup puts together a hefty target on the scoreboard. On the bowling front, Bhuvneshwar Kumar continues to lead the pace attack with experience and control. The team has shown better fielding standards and team synergy. With solid leadership and momentum, they’ve remained competitive in close matches.
However, the RCB team still struggles with death bowling, often leaking runs in the final overs. Their overreliance on top-order batters can hurt if early wickets fall. The spin department lacks a reliable match-winner, especially on turning tracks. Krunal Pandya and Liam Livingstone have impressed with their spin deliveries in this season so far but a lack of veteran spinner is deficient and will prove to be immensely costly as we move towards knockoffs. Additionally, Injuries and inconsistency among some overseas players have disrupted the balance. Despite talent, they sometimes falter under pressure in knockout scenarios.
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have faced several challenges in the IPL 2025 season. A major issue has been the leadership transition after Shreyas Iyer’s exit, with Ajinkya Rahane’s calm style lacking aggressive T20 instincts. Their middle order remains fragile, relying heavily on Rinku Singh while veterans like Rahane and Manish Pandey have been inconsistent. Injuries to key players like Andre Russell and Anrich Nortje have disrupted team balance. The pace attack lacks depth and experience, especially after releasing Mitchell Starc. Tactical clarity has also suffered following the exit of mentor Gautam Gambhir. Together, these weaknesses have impacted KKR’s consistency and momentum this season. They need to win this game at every cost if they wish to proceed further.
Conclusion
The much-anticipated clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders is set to take place at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. In the last 5 encounters, the KKR team has dominated with 4 crucial wins. KKR will need to present their best game in this match as well if they want to keep their hopes of defending their champions title alive. Key players to watch include Virat Kohli and Phil Salt whose early strikes could turn the tide for RCB, and Andre Russell for Rajasthan, whose lethal batting has been a rare bright spot. With both teams eager to prove a point, this promises to be a thrilling contest. If you want to watch RCB Vs KKR live, scroll above and click on the link provided.
