How A Rain-Hit RCB vs KKR Match Could Hurt Kolkata's Playoff Hopes

After a week-long break due to tensions between India and Pakistan, IPL 2025 is set to resume on May 17 with a high-voltage clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Weather may disrupt play

Weather forecasts indicate a high probability of rain in Bengaluru on match day, especially in the evening hours. The city has experienced frequent rainfall over the past week, raising concerns about a possible match washout.

What if the match is washed out?

If the game is abandoned, both teams will receive one point each. RCB, who currently sit near the top of the table, would move to 17 points, keeping their playoff hopes alive but still vulnerable depending on other results.

For KKR, however, a washout could be a major blow. With 11 points from 12 games, even a win in their final league stage match (vs SRH on May 22) would only take them to 14 points, which may not be enough to qualify for the playoffs.

KKR's edge at Chinnaswamy

Despite the stakes, KKR have history on their side. They have defeated RCB in each of their last five matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium. RCB haven't beaten KKR at home since 2015, a trend they'll be hoping to break - weather permitting.

World-class drainage system at Bengaluru

Rain threatens to disrupt RCB vs KKR match, but fans can take comfort in the world-class drainage system at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Among Indian stadiums, Chinnaswamy is considered to have the best drainage system, thanks to the sub-air technology installed by the Karnataka State Cricke
Association (KSCA). This system ensures rapid removal of surface water and allows play to resume shortly after rain stops.

As a result, despite the rain forecast, there's a strong chance that tonight's Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) fixture will proceed with minimal delays.

ipl