Eden Gardens to host first and final matches of IPL 2025

The excitement for cricket fans across India and beyond is palpable as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially unveiled the schedule for the much-anticipated IPL 2025 season. The tournament is set to commence on March 22, with a thrilling opener pitting the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This season will feature a total of 74 matches spread across 13 different venues, ensuring a nationwide cricketing fiesta.

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The schedule promises a blend of high-octane clashes, including double-headers on all Sundays and selected Saturdays to maximize fan viewing pleasure. Notably, the opening Sunday will see two blockbuster games, with Sunrisers Hyderabad taking on Rajasthan Royals in the afternoon match on March 23 in Hyderabad, followed by the classic rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) later that day in Chennai.

As the league progresses, fans can look forward to the playoffs, with Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator scheduled for May 20 and 21 in Hyderabad, while Qualifier 2 will be held in Kolkata on May 23. The season will culminate with the grand finale back at Eden Gardens on May 25, where the champions of IPL 2025 will be crowned. 

This IPL season is particularly special as it will implement the ICC's Code of Conduct, a significant change from previous seasons, aiming to bring uniformity in player behavior across international and league cricket. With the schedule now out, cricket lovers are gearing up for another season of thrilling cricket, unexpected heroics, and unforgettable moments.