The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they clash in the 58th match of IPL 2025 on Saturday, May 17. A win for RCB could catapult them to the top of the points table, while a KKR victory would inject more excitement into the playoff race. However, if rain washes out the match at Chinnaswamy Stadium, KKR’s playoff hopes could be dashed.
RCB’s Opening Pair Ready to Shine
RCB fans are in for a treat as opening batsman Phil Salt is likely to return to the lineup. Virat Kohli has been in top form this season, and RCB will be banking on this potent opening pair to give them a flying start. With Josh Hazlewood’s availability still uncertain, Bhuvneshwar Kumar will likely lead the bowling attack.
KKR’s Hopes Rest on Rahane and Raghuvanshi
For KKR, captain Ajinkya Rahane will be under pressure to perform. He has made 375 runs at an average of 37.5, including three half-centuries, in 12 matches so far. Angkrish Raghuvanshi has also been a bright spot for KKR, scoring 286 runs at an average of 35.75 in 11 matches, with one half-century to his name.
The Orange Cap Chase
Virat Kohli is fourth in the race for the Orange Cap, while Mumbai Indians’ Suryakumar Yadav leads the pack. However, the gap between the two is narrow. Yadav has scored 510 runs at an average of 63.75 in 12 matches, while Kohli has made 505 runs at an average of 63.13 in 11 matches. Yadav leads Kohli by just five runs. If Kohli scores six or more runs on Saturday, he will take the Orange Cap.