The Indian Premier League (IPL) is more than just a cricket tournament; it’s a festival that brings together fans from around the world to witness high-intensity matches, thrilling performances, and electrifying atmospheres. The IPL 2025 season is scheduled to take place from March 22 to May 25, 2025, featuring some of the best teams competing for the coveted trophy.
Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata will host several key matches, including the opening match on March 22, 2025, and the final on May 25, 2025. Known for its passionate cricket-loving crowd, this historic venue will once again be at the center of the IPL action, promising unforgettable moments for fans.
How to Reach Eden Gardens Stadium
Situated in the heart of Kolkata, Eden Gardens is well-connected by various modes of transportation:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, approximately 15 kilometers from the stadium, serves as the primary gateway for domestic and international travelers. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach the stadium.
- By Train: Howrah Junction and Sealdah Railway Station are the two major railway stations in Kolkata. Both are within a 5-6 kilometer radius of Eden Gardens. Taxis, buses, and app-based cabs are readily available from these stations to the stadium.
- By Metro: The nearest metro station to Eden Gardens is Esplanade Metro Station, located about 1 kilometer away. From there, it’s a short walk or a quick rickshaw ride to the stadium.
- By Road: Kolkata’s extensive bus network includes several routes that pass near Eden Gardens. Additionally, taxis and app-based cab services offer convenient options for reaching the stadium.
Eden Gardens Pitch Report
Eden Gardens is renowned for its batting-friendly pitch. The flat surface and smaller boundaries often result in high-scoring matches, making it a paradise for batsmen. In the previous IPL season, the average first-innings score was around 198 runs. Notably, a total of 261 runs was once chased successfully at this venue, highlighting the challenges bowlers face here.
Teams winning the toss often prefer to bowl first, considering the dew factor that can influence the game’s outcome in the second innings.
IPL 2025 Matches at Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens is set to host several key matches during the IPL 2025 season:
- Opening Match: March 22, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
- Final Match: May 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST – Teams to be determined based on playoff outcomes.
For a detailed match schedule, including dates and venues, please refer to the official IPL 2025 season schedule.
Ticket Booking for IPL Matches at Eden Gardens
Securing tickets for IPL matches at Eden Gardens can be done through both online and offline methods:
- Online Booking: Tickets are available on the official IPL website and authorized ticketing partners. It’s advisable to book early, as matches at Eden Gardens often sell out quickly due to high demand.
- Offline Purchase: Tickets can be bought at the stadium’s ticket counters. The box office typically operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on non-match days and remains open until the match concludes on game days.
- Price Range: Ticket prices typically range from ₹500 for general stands to ₹10,000 for premium hospitality seats. Prices may vary depending on the match, seat category, and demand.
IPL Records at Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens has been a witness to numerous memorable performances in IPL history:
- Highest Team Score: The highest team total recorded at Eden Gardens is 262/2, achieved by Punjab Kings while chasing a target set by Kolkata Knight Riders.
- Top Run-Scorers: Former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir leads the run charts at this venue with 1,407 runs, followed by Robin Uthappa (1,159 runs) and Andre Russell (956 runs).
- Leading Wicket-Takers: Sunil Narine tops the bowling figures with 69 wickets at Eden Gardens, with Piyush Chawla (43 wickets) and Andre Russell (39 wickets) trailing.
Exploring Kolkata Beyond Cricket
While in Kolkata for the IPL, take the opportunity to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage:
- Victoria Memorial: A magnificent marble structure dedicated to Queen Victoria, surrounded by lush gardens.
- Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
- Howrah Bridge: An iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River, symbolizing Kolkata’s architectural prowess.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Indian Museum: The oldest and largest museum in India, housing an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners)
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Closed on Mondays
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located along the eastern banks of the Hooghly River.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Summing Up
Attending an IPL match at Eden Gardens is more than just witnessing a cricket game; it’s about immersing yourself in an experience filled with passion, history, and excitement. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Kolkata to reach the stadium, marveling at the high-scoring encounters on its batting-friendly pitch, or exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, your visit promises to be unforgettable.
