The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to resume with a high-octane clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 17 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, the much-anticipated encounter faces a looming threat of disruption due to persistent thunderstorms and rainfall expected in Bengaluru throughout the evening. According to AccuWeather, thunderstorms are likely to persist from 6 PM to 8 PM, coinciding with the expected match start time. The temperature during this period is forecasted to hover around 27°C, with RealFeel® temperatures of 28°C and humidity peaking at 81%. Wind gusts may reach up to 22 km/h, further intensifying weather concerns.
By 9 PM onwards, weather conditions are expected to slightly improve, shifting from active thunderstorms to cloudy skies. The temperature is predicted to drop to 25°C with relatively stable humidity levels around 78-81%. Despite the expected easing of rainfall in the later hours, heavy ground moisture and high indoor humidity could affect the condition of the outfield, even with the stadium’s advanced drainage system. This raises questions about whether the full match can be played without interruptions or if a rain-shortened encounter is more likely.
This match holds significant importance for both teams. RCB currently sits in second place with 16 points from 11 games, and a win would nearly confirm their qualification for the playoffs while also strengthening their chances for a top-two finish. In contrast, KKR, led by Ajinkya Rahane, is in a must-win situation. With just 11 points from 12 matches, anything less than a victory will officially eliminate them from playoff contention. The stakes couldn’t be higher, making weather disruptions even more frustrating for players and fans alike.
Adding to the drama, this fixture marks the return of IPL 2025 after a temporary suspension due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan. The tournament was abruptly halted last week following an air-strike alert during the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game in Dharamsala. With stability now restored, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially greenlit the restart. But nature could still play spoilsport, as Bengaluru has experienced continuous downpours in mid-May, leaving parts of the Chinnaswamy Stadium waterlogged just days before the big game.
In the event of a complete washout, RCB would move to 17 points — still in playoff contention but under more pressure to win their remaining matches. KKR, on the other hand, would face elimination, making every over of play critical. Fans and fantasy league players are keeping a close eye on hourly forecasts as the evening approaches, hoping that the weather will clear enough for at least a shortened game.
Stay tuned to DeshCrux.com and India Today for real-time updates, live scores, and weather alerts for IPL 2025. Also, track the latest IPL Points Table, Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings, and team news from RCB, KKR, CSK, MI, SRH, DC, LSG, PBKS, RR, and GT as the race to the playoffs intensifies.
