The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati is set to host its first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season today, featuring the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against the Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Further, both teams are aiming for their inaugural win this season after a disappointing loss, adding significance to this encounter.​

Overview of Barsapara Stadium

Officially named Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium, the Barsapara Cricket Stadium is located in Guwahati, Assam.

Inaugurated on 10 October 2017 by former Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, it serves as the home ground for the Assam cricket team and is managed by the Assam Cricket Association.

The stadium boasts a seating capacity extendable up to 55,000 spectators, making it the largest sports venue in northeast India. 

Pitch Characteristics and IPL Records

The pitch at Barsapara Stadium is known to be batting-friendly, often yielding high-scoring encounters. Historically, the average first-innings score in T20 matches here hovers around 198 runs.

Notably, the highest T20 total recorded at this venue is 237/3 by India against South Africa in 2022. ​

In the IPL context, the stadium has hosted a limited number of matches with teams batting first having had a slight advantage, with two wins out of the four matches played.

The highest IPL total at this ground is 199/4 by the Rajasthan Royals against the Delhi Capitals in 2023, while the lowest is 142/9 by the Delhi Capitals in the same match. ​

Memorable Performances

Shikhar Dhawan's unbeaten 86 off 56 balls for Punjab Kings against Rajasthan Royals in 2023 stands out as the highest individual IPL score at this venue.

On the bowling front, Nathan Ellis of Punjab Kings achieved remarkable figures of 4 wickets for 30 runs in the same year.
​
Today's Encounter: KKR vs. RR

As KKR and RR face off today, both teams are eager to secure their first victory of the season. Given the pitch's propensity to favor batsmen, spectators can anticipate a high-scoring and thrilling contest.