IPL 2025: BCCI to release new IPL schedule? KKR vs LSG clash faces security concerns

Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is facing a roadblock due to security concerns. Kolkata Police has reportedly expressed its inability to provide adequate security for the fixture as it coincides with the Ram Navami celebrations.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin in a few weeks, generating excitement among fans and players. The season will open with a highly anticipated clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 22.

Kolkata Police Unable to Provide Adequate Security for KKR vs LSG Match

The Knight Riders are scheduled to face Lucknow Super Giants on April 6 at Eden Gardens. However, the match faces a potential hurdle due to security concerns.

The fixture coincides with Ram Navami, a religious festival, which will see multiple processions across Kolkata. This has created a logistical challenge for local authorities in ensuring adequate security for both events.

"As per the sources, Kolkata Police has expressed its inability to provide adequate security for the match, raising concerns about the event's feasibility," India Today reported.

Cricket Association of Bengal Officials Approach West Bengal Sports Minister for Resolution

Officials from the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) have approached West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas regarding security concerns for the match. The minister has assured his support and will discuss the matter with Kolkata Police to find a solution.

Rescheduling or changing the venue is challenging due to the high anticipation surrounding the fixture. The game has gained added significance because Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka has strong ties to Kolkata and the team recently signed Rishabh Pant.

"In response, officials from the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) have engaged in discussions with the state’s Sports Minister, Aroop Biswas, according to the sources. The Sports Minister has assured the CAB of his support and promised to discuss with the Kolkata Police to identify a feasible solution," the report added.

Scheduling conflicts during the Indian Premier League are common. In 2024, a similar situation arose when a KKR match clashed with Ram Navami, which led to a rescheduling. The possibility of another fixture change remains unless local authorities and tournament organizers find a viable solution.

Ajinkya Rahane Named Kolkata Knight Riders Captain for IPL 2025

Kolkata Knight Riders recently named Ajinkya Rahane as their captain and Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain for IPL 2025. Iyer was bought for a massive ₹23.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, while Rahane was acquired at his base price of ₹1.50 crore.

Shreyas Iyer was neither retained nor bought back in the mega auction despite leading KKR to their third title last season. However, KKR retained key players from their winning squad, including Rinku Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, and Ramandeep Singh.

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