The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has officially begun, and Google is marking the occasion with a special doodle. The 18th edition of the IPL kicked off on March 22, 2025, with a blockbuster opening match between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Cricket fans worldwide are excited to witness another season of thrilling matches, star performances, and unforgettable moments.

Google's Unique IPL 2025 Doodle

To commemorate the start of the new IPL season, Google has created an animated doodle featuring two ducks playing cricket. This quirky and playful design symbolizes the excitement and entertainment the tournament brings every year. Google has a history of celebrating major sporting events with special doodles, and IPL, being the biggest T20 league in the world, is no exception.

A Look Back at IPL’s Glorious Legacy

Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has grown into the most popular and competitive T20 cricket league globally. The first-ever IPL match, played 17 years ago, saw Brendon McCullum smashing an iconic 158* for KKR, setting the tone for the league’s high-octane cricket. Over the years, the tournament has given us so many unforgettable moments, from those heart-stopping finishes to incredible record-breaking performances. The IPL 2025 season is shaping up to be another exciting part of this journey.

A High-Voltage Opening Clash: KKR vs. RCB

The opening game of IPL 2025 featured a classic rivalry as KKR took on RCB. This match was highly anticipated not only because it was a repeat of the first-ever IPL match but also due to the rich history and fierce competition between the two teams. With cricketing icons like Virat Kohli leading RCB and an explosive KKR squad ready to defend their title, the encounter was expected to set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Star-Studded Opening Ceremony

Before the first ball was bowled, fans were treated to a grand opening ceremony featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, a co-owner of KKR, graced the event, alongside sensational singers Shreya Ghoshal and Karan Aujla. Disha Patani really lit up the stage with her awesome performance! The opening night was a total blast, filled with music, dancing, and some epic fireworks.

Teams Eyeing New Records and Achievements

One of the biggest talking points of IPL 2025 is whether teams can break the 300-run mark in a single innings. Last season, Sunrisers Hyderabad set a record total of 287/3, and with power-packed batting lineups across teams, cricket experts predict that the 300-run barrier could be breached this year. The introduction of innovative strategies, player fitness, and aggressive gameplay will play a crucial role in making this happen.

New Captains and Key Player Changes

This season has seen a major shuffle in team leadership. Rishabh Pant, after a stellar individual performance last year, was bought for a record-breaking $3.12 million and is now leading Lucknow SuperGiants. Other significant captaincy changes include Ajinkya Rahane taking over KKR, Axar Patel leading Delhi Capitals, and Rajat Patidar replacing Faf du Plessis as RCB’s captain. These changes bring fresh tactical approaches and excitement to the tournament.

RCB’s Quest for Their Maiden IPL Trophy

Despite being one of the most-followed franchises, RCB has yet to lift the IPL trophy. They have reached the final three times but have fallen short on each occasion. With a strong squad, including Virat Kohli and a balanced combination of experienced and young players, this could finally be the year they end their title drought. Former RCB star AB de Villiers has also expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver this season.

Weather Concerns Loom Over Opening Matches

While excitement is at its peak, weather forecasts indicate potential disruptions. The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for South Bengal, predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. With the opening match scheduled at Eden Gardens, there is a possibility of rain interruptions or even match abandonment, which could be disappointing for fans. Organizers are closely monitoring the situation to ensure minimal impact on the game.

CSK vs. MI: The Biggest Clash Awaits

After the electrifying KKR vs. RCB encounter, fans are eagerly waiting for another high-voltage clash—Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs. Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23, 2025. This fixture is often referred to as the ‘El Clasico’ of IPL, given the intense rivalry between the two most successful teams in the league’s history. CSK, led by MS Dhoni, narrowly missed the playoffs last season, while MI, despite their five championship wins, finished last in IPL 2024. This match will be a crucial test for both teams to prove their dominance.

How Fans Can Watch IPL 2025 Live

With global anticipation for IPL 2025, cricket fans worldwide can catch all the live-action through multiple streaming and broadcasting platforms. Fans in the US, UK, and Canada can access live coverage through official IPL broadcasters and digital streaming services. The league’s immense popularity ensures that millions will be tuning in from different corners of the world.