New Delhi: Brilliant half-centuries from star player Virat Kohli and new recruit Phil Salt led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a convincing seven-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2025 opener on Saturday. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt gave RCB a sensational start in their chase of 175 runs against KKR in the IPL 2025 opener at Eden Gardens. Kohli blasted a quick half-century off just 30 balls while captain Rajat Patidar played a fiery cameo of 34 runs off 16 balls helping RCB reach 167/3 after 16 overs. RCBs opener Phil Salt formerly of KKR made a valuable contribution with 56 runs off 31 balls before being dismissed. Earlier KKR couldnt fully capitalize on a strong beginning finishing with 174/8 in 20 overs against RCB. KKR’s captain Ajinkya Rahane top-scored with 56 and Sunil Narine supported with 44 runs. Krunal Pandya claimed three wickets while Josh Hazlewood took 2/22. RCB captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and chose to bowl first against the defending champions.