IPL 2025 begins on March 22, with the opening game to be played between KKR and RCB.
Cricket News
The most awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is scheduled to begin on March 22, with 10 franchises once again ready to fight out for the prestigious gold in a two-month-long tournament. Former South African skipper and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend AB de Villiers has predicted the four teams he believes will make it to the playoffs this year.
De Villiers named Mumbai Indians (MI), RCB, Gujarat Titans (GT), and defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as his picks for the IPL 2025 playoffs. He mentioned the balance and potential of these teams, backing them to make a significant impact in the tournament.
“I think Mumbai Indians can reach the playoffs. I definitely think RCB will also reach the playoffs this time. Because this time the team is in balance and then Gujarat Titans is also a contender for the playoffs. I think defending champion KKR will also be in the playoff race and can be successful in making its place in the playoffs. These are my four teams that can reach the playoffs,” said De Villiers on his YouTube channel.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Match 1, KKR vs RCB Match Prediction
One of the biggest talking points of De Villiers’ prediction was the exclusion of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a five-time IPL champion, from his list. CSK, under new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2024, narrowly missed out on a playoff spot after losing a do-or-die match to RCB. De Villiers admitted to CSK’s strength but stood by his choices, believing that the four teams he picked have the best chance to make it through.
“Yes, I have not kept CSK. It is a strong team, CSK fans may be disappointed, but I will go with these four teams only,” he added.
Meanwhile, the tournament opener will see KKR take on RCB at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on March 22. Mumbai Indians will be once again led by Hardik Pandya, though he will miss the opening game due to a slow over-rate offence from the previous season with Suryakumar Yadav set to lead the side for that fixture. Gujarat Titans will continue under Shubman Gill, while KKR has appointed Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain following Shreyas Iyer’s release. Meanwhile, RCB has named Rajat Patidar as their skipper as they look to break their title drought.
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