The highly anticipated IPL 2025 season kicked off in style at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium as Rajasthan Royals (RR) won the toss and chose to bowl first against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Both teams are eager to make a strong statement in their opening match of the season.
RR skipper Riyan Parag, who has stepped into the captaincy role with high expectations, cited the dry pitch conditions as a key factor in his decision to bowl first. “Looks like a dry wicket, so we’ll have a crack at it later,” Parag said at the toss. He also expressed excitement about leading the team, adding, “It means a lot—started here as a 17-year-old. Getting to fill in big shoes, very excited.”
SRH captain Pat Cummins appeared unbothered by the toss result, emphasizing the importance of playing with freedom. “It’s great to be back. The core of the group is the same, and the coaching staff is the same. We always encourage our players to play with freedom,” he said. SRH will feature debutants Ishan Kishan and Abhinav Manohar in their playing XI.
The playing XI for the Rajasthan Royals includes Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shimron Hetmyer, and Jofra Archer, while Sunrisers Hyderabad features stalwarts like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, and Mohammed Shami. As the two teams prepare to lock horns, fans are expecting an electrifying start to the IPL 2025 season.
The match promises to set the tone for what is expected to be another thrilling season of the Indian Premier League. Stay tuned for live updates and match highlights.