On March 22, Google commemorated the much-anticipated start of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League with a special doodle. The tournament, which has captivated cricket fans for over a decade, is set to begin with a high-voltage clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic Eden Gardens.
This year’s Google Doodle features two animated ducks playing cricket, a lighthearted nod to the excitement and energy that the IPL brings. The league’s legacy was cemented from the very first game in 2008 when Brendon McCullum’s explosive 158-run knock set the stage for what would become the world’s most celebrated T20 tournament. Over the years, the IPL has grown into a spectacle that blends cricketing brilliance with entertainment, drawing millions of fans each season.
The opening match of the IPL 2025 is not just a repeat of the inaugural fixture but remains one of the most awaited rivalries in the league. With Virat Kohli leading RCB’s charge, the expectations are high and despite the possibility of rain affecting the game, Eden Gardens is set to welcome a packed house. Adding to the grandeur, the opening ceremony will feature Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and actress Disha Patani along with singers Shreya Ghoshal and Karan Aujla, promising a dazzling start to the tournament.
The excitement continues beyond the first game, as the following day will see one of the fiercest rivalries in the IPL history unfold. The five times champions Chennai Super Kings are set to face arch-rivals Mumbai Indians, a clash that has always been a highlight of the tournament. Chennai narrowly missed the playoffs last season while Mumbai, despite its rich history of success, had a disappointing campaign and will be eager to make a strong comeback.
Google’s tradition of marking special occasions with doodles dates back to 1998 when the first ever alteration of its logo paid tribute to the Burning Man Festival. Since then, doodles have become a signature way for the tech giant to celebrate global events and with the IPL standing as the biggest T20 league in the world, it was only fitting that it found a place on Google’s homepage.
As the tournament kicks off, cricket lovers across the world brace themselves for another season of thrilling contests, unforgettable moments and the unparalleled excitement that only the IPL can deliver.
