IPL 2025: Rain Threatens RCB vs KKR Match on May 17
Upcoming IPL Clash Faces Rain Challenges
The eagerly awaited IPL 2025 encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is set for Saturday, May 17, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, forecasts indicate that rain may disrupt the event, with heavy showers expected in Bengaluru.
Weather Forecast: Rain Predicted for Match Day
According to Accuweather, Bengaluru is likely to experience thunderstorms and heavy rain on Saturday, especially in the evening. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) also predicts rain or thundershowers during that time.
Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 31°C, dropping to approximately 22°C at night. The likelihood of rain during the day stands at 84%, with a 56% chance in the evening. Thunderstorms may occur, with a 50% chance during the day and 34% in the evening, potentially lasting over an hour.
Weather Disrupts Practice Sessions
The rain has already impacted the teams' training schedules. RCB opted for an early practice session on Friday from 2 pm to 5 pm to avoid evening showers. Mo Bobat, RCB's Director of Cricket, mentioned that the early session was planned due to uncertain weather conditions.
KKR started their practice at 5 pm but had to cut it short after just 90 minutes due to rain. RCB was unable to train at all on Thursday because of adverse weather.
Impact on IPL 2025 Playoff Scenario
KKR's Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
If the match is canceled due to rain, KKR's chances of making the playoffs will take a significant hit. Currently, they have 11 points and two matches left. An abandoned match would mean shared points, leaving them with a maximum of 14, which may not be enough for playoff qualification.
KKR has already faced a rain-related setback this season when their match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) was also called off. They must win both remaining matches and hope for favorable outcomes in other games to keep their playoff hopes alive.
RCB in a Stronger Position
In contrast, RCB is in a more advantageous position. With 16 points and three matches remaining, they need just one more win to secure a playoff spot. Even if Saturday's match is affected by rain, they still have a chance to qualify and could finish as high as second. Their previous match at the same venue against Punjab Kings was shortened to 14 overs due to rain.
Fans will be watching the skies closely in Bengaluru on Saturday. While they hope for an exciting match between RCB and KKR, the weather could once again intervene. If the rain subsides, it will be a crucial game for both teams in their playoff pursuits. Bengaluru's drainage system is among the best in India, so a shortened match could still be on the cards if the rain stops early.