IPL 2025: Predicting Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Playing XI for the game vs RCB

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This high-voltage match will not only kick off the tournament but also mark the start of KKR’s title defense. At this venue, KKR have a strong record against RCB. In 12 matches so far, they have won eight and lost four. 

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After lifting the trophy last season, expectations from fans are even higher this time. However, the team will be without their previous title-winning captain, Shreyas Iyer, and mentor, Gautam Gambhir. A new chapter begins for KKR under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane. 

Despite spending a massive ₹23.75 crore to buy Venkatesh Iyer at the auction, the franchise named Rahane as captain. Venkatesh Iyer has been appointed as his deputy. As for KKR’s probable playing XI, Sunil Narine is expected to open the innings, just like last season. He will be partnered by wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock. 

Skipper Rahane is likely to bat at number three, followed by vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer at number four. Rinku Singh should take the number five spot. The experienced all-rounder Andre Russell and Ramandeep Singh will add firepower in the middle order at six and seven. 

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This could be the breakthrough season for Ramandeep as he has been showing his power-hitting skills and athleticism in the fielding in various tournaments for the last one year. In the bowling attack, three pacers—Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, and Anrich Nortje—will lead the pace department.  Varun Chakravarthy will be another primary spinner along with Narine. 

The spin duo of Narine and Chakravarthy was outstanding last season, making them crucial again. Along with them, Rahane has four pace options—Russell, Nortje, Rana, and Arora. If needed, Ramandeep can also bowl if needed. 

With a solid batting lineup that extends to number eight and multiple bowling options, KKR appear well-balanced against RCB. Depending on match situations, they can use one of Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Chetan Sakariya, Mayank Markande, or Anukul Roy as the impact player.       

Here is the predicted playing XI for KKR for the game vs RCB 

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Quinton de Kock (wicket-keeper), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Anrich Nortje, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy.

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