Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is scheduled to start from March 22, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will take Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the tournament's opener at iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The 18th edition of the tournament will witness 74 matches.
Former RCB star AB de Villiers picked the semifinalists of the mega event. He picked RCB, Mumbai Indians (MI), Gujarat Titans (GT), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as the semifinalists of the showpiece event.
“I think Mumbai Indians can reach the playoffs. I definitely think RCB will also reach the playoffs this time. Because this time the team is in balance and then Gujarat Titans is also a contender for the playoffs. I think defending champion KKR will also be in the playoff race and can be successful in making its place in the playoffs. These are my four teams that can reach the playoffs,” said De Villiers.
The legendary cricketer ignored five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from his list. However, De Villiers acknowledged that CSK is a strong side but stuck to his choices.
“Yes, I have not kept CSK. It is a strong team, CSK fans may be disappointed, but I will go with these four teams only,” added De Villiers.
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How the 4 sides have performed in the IPL
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians are the most successful franchise in IPL history, they won the five titles which is joint most by any team. However, MI failed to perform in the recent edition of the tournament.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Despite a star-studded lineup, RCB has yet to win an IPL title. The franchise has appointed Rajat Patidar as their skipper for the upcoming edition. The franchise will look to break their title drought.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
GT made its IPL debut in 2022 and won its maiden title in the same year. Gujarat-based franchise were the finalists of IPL 2023 where CSK defeated them to win their fifth title.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR will start their IPL 2025 campaign as defending champions. The Kolkata-based franchise have won three IPL titles. Ajinkya Rahane-led side will look to repeat the same in the upcoming edition of the tournament.