Rain washes out IPL 2025 restart; KKR knocked out of playoff race

NEW DELHI: Rain played spoilsport on Saturday, halting the much-anticipated restart of the Indian Premier League 2025. The high-profile clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The washout delivered a fatal blow to KKR’s playoff hopes. With only 12 points from 13 games and just one match left, the two-time champions were officially eliminated from contention. They now join Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad on the list of teams knocked out of the playoff race.Who's that IPL player?RCB, on the other hand, benefitted from the shared points. With the one point earned, they climbed to the top of the 10-team table with 17 points from 12 games — virtually securing a spot in the playoffs. A loss for either Punjab Kings or Delhi Capitals on Sunday would seal RCB’s qualification.The atmosphere in Bengaluru, however, was one of disappointment, especially for fans who had gathered in large numbers to pay tribute to Virat Kohli following his recent Test retirement. Many turned up in white jerseys bearing Kohli’s iconic No. 18, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star batter. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans.The IPL had resumed after a 10-day pause prompted by geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. A ceasefire allowed the tournament to continue, but the revised schedule has posed logistical challenges. Some overseas stars may miss remaining matches due to national duties.With the playoff picture still evolving, Sunday’s fixtures could prove crucial. Gujarat Titans face Delhi Capitals, while Punjab Kings take on Rajasthan Royals. The playoffs begin on May 29, with the final slated for June 3.