ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The Indian Premier League (IPL) is back, and the excitement is palpable as teams look to break records and push the boundaries of what’s possible in T20 cricket. With the 2025 season underway, a new benchmark is in sight: the elusive 300-run total.
Hyderabad’s Record-Setting Score
In a significant shift from previous years, the IPL is witnessing an escalation in scores. The record for the highest total was set by Sunrisers Hyderabad last season, who posted an impressive 287-3 against Royal Challengers Bangalore. This total has since become the new gold standard, but experts believe the 300-mark is within reach.
Nathan Leamon, a strategy consultant for the Kolkata Knight Riders, is among those who believe that teams could soon surpass the 300-run threshold. “We’ve already seen a huge escalation in scores over the last two years. It would be naive to think that we’ve reached the fullest extent of this growth,” said Leamon. “Teams are learning how to exploit the laws of the game and conditions, which is evident in scores like 260, which were unheard of just a few years ago.”
The IPL Opener: RCB vs Kolkata Knight Riders
The IPL 2025 season opener on Saturday will feature Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) facing Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. RCB, traditionally known for their explosive batting, are expected to be one of the teams pushing the 300-run mark this season. Bengaluru’s flat pitches and small boundaries have often been conducive to high-scoring games, and with the current form of their batting line-up, they are well-positioned to set new records.
This year, RCB is under new leadership, with Rajat Patidar taking the reins as captain, one of five new captains in the IPL’s 18th edition. The season, which will culminate in the final on May 25 in Kolkata, promises plenty of twists and turns as teams push for supremacy.
Other Key Matchups and New Captains
The IPL 2025 season also brings new leadership across several franchises. Kolkata Knight Riders, following the departure of Shreyas Iyer, have appointed Ajinkya Rahane as captain. Rahane will look to steer the team through a competitive field that also features the Punjab Kings, led by Iyer, who is aiming to lead his side to their first-ever IPL title.
Delhi Capitals will be captained by all-rounder Axar Patel, replacing Rishabh Pant, who will now lead the Lucknow Super Giants. The season’s double-headers include a thrilling clash on Sunday between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, both of whom have won the IPL five times, making it one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the year.
AB de Villiers’ Backing for RCB
As the season progresses, former RCB star AB de Villiers has voiced his support for his former team, calling them “an incredibly good, balanced team” and expressing optimism that they have what it takes to shed their underachiever’s tag. “I do feel this squad has got what it takes to go all the way,” de Villiers remarked ahead of the start of the season.
Conclusion
With a high-scoring IPL season on the horizon, teams are eager to break new records, and the 300-run target looms large. As the new season unfolds, fans can expect plenty of excitement, with the potential for explosive performances and new milestones that will shape the future of T20 cricket.
