Kolkata/IBNS: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 opening match between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is staring at a complete washout as rains and thunderstorms have been predicted in Kolkata over the weekend, media reports said.

The weather department has issued an orange alert for the opening match day (March 22).

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted thunderstorms and rain from Thursday to Sunday.

The ground staff are keeping the entire ground covered taking no chance.

The 18th edition of IPL is planned to begin with a grand ceremony where singers Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla and Bollywood actress Disha Patani are set to perform.

Both KKR and RCB are having new captains for the season with Ajinkya Rahane has been picked as skipper for the home team while Rajat Patidar will lead the Bengaluru franchise.

The rain forecast is a disappointment for the cricket fans as KKR's one homematch is getting rescheduled.

KKR's home match against Lucknow Super Giants scheduled to be held at the Eden Gardens on April 6 is set to be moved to Guwahati as local police have expressed their inability to provide adequate security on that day due to 'Ram Navami' celebrations.