The Indian Premier League match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants on April 6 is likely to be rescheduled, hinted Cricket Association of Bengal president Snehashish Ganguly.
Speaking to PTI ahead of the IPL opener, Ganguly revealed that the Kolkata Police might not be able to provide security for the match due to Ram Navami.
PTI reported that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari announced that over 20,000 processions will take place across West Bengal on Ram Navami, leading to heightened security requirements across the state. PTI reported that CAB president Snehasish Ganguly held two rounds of discussions with the city police on Tuesday, March 18, where the police confirmed that they would not be able to provide cover for the match at Eden Garden.
“They have categorically said they won’t be able to provide adequate security. If there’s no police protection, accommodating a 65,000-strong crowd becomes impossible,” Snehasish Ganguly was quoted by PTI.
“We have informed the BCCI, and there is still time to take a final call. Even last year, a scheduled IPL match on Ram Navami had to be rescheduled,” he added.
The clash between KKR and LSG, owned by RPSG Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka, is expected to draw a packed house. LSG enjoys strong local support due to Goenka’s involvement with the Indian Super League, where he owns Mohun Bagan Super Giants.
Last season, the IPL fixture between KKR and Rajasthan Royals was also rescheduled due to security concerns on Ram Navami.
Glittering Opening Ceremony
The 2025 IPL season will begin at Eden Gardens on March 22, with defending champions KKR taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru. A glittering 35-minute opening ceremony will precede the match, with likely performances by noted singer Shreya Ghoshal and actress Disha Patani.
The event is also likely to be attended by ICC chairman Jay Shah and other dignitaries.
“It’s a marquee match with full demand for tickets. Eden Gardens is set to host an opening ceremony after a long time,” Snehasish said, refusing to divulge details about the opening ceremony.