In pics: From Rishabh Pant to Ajinkya Rahane – IPL teams celebrate Holi with vibrant festivities ahead of 2025 season

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season approaches, with the opening match slated for March 22, teams across the country have taken a colorful break from their rigorous pre-season training to celebrate Holi, the festival of colors. The joyous occasion, observed on March 14 this year, has brought players, coaches, and support staff together in a display of unity and camaraderie, setting a festive tone for the much-anticipated tournament. From Kolkata to Ahmedabad, and Dharamsala to New Delhi, the IPL franchises have embraced the spirit of Holi, blending tradition with team-building ahead of the high-stakes season.

Kolkata Knight Riders: Defending champs kick off in style

The defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)celebrated Holi with gusto at their team hotel in Kolkata. The squad, led by players like Ajinkya rahane, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singhand young talent Angkrish raghuvanshiturned the celebration into a vibrant affair. Head coach Chandrakant pandit and spin bowling coach Carl Crowe joined the festivities, getting drenched in gulal (colored powder) alongside the players.

Delhi Capitals: A dual celebration

Delhi Capitals (DC) marked Holi with a double dose of festivity, involving both their men’s and women’s teams. The women’s team, fresh off securing a spot in their third consecutive Women’s Premier League (WPL) final (scheduled for March 15 in Mumbai), kicked off the celebrations a day early on March 14 at their hotel.

Meanwhile, the men’s team, currently in pre-season camp in New Delhi, joined in on the same day. Images shared by the franchise captured players and staff drenched in colors, dancing, and reveling in the festive atmosphere. For DC, this Holi was more than just a celebration—it was a moment to strengthen bonds across their squads as they aim for glory in both the IPL and WPL.

Gujarat Titans: Colors light up Ahmedabad

In Ahmedabad, the Gujarat Titans (GT) brought their training camp to life with a spirited Holi celebration. Players traded cricket bats for handfuls of gulal, turning their preparatory base into a riot of colors. The franchise shared glimpses of the event on social media, highlighting the infectious energy among the squad. With the IPL season just days away, GT’s Holi festivities served as a refreshing break, allowing the team to recharge and reconnect before their campaign begins.

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Punjab Kings: Festive cheer in the Himalayas

Up north, Punjab Kings (PBKS) celebrated Holi at their training base, the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. Nestled against the stunning Himalayan backdrop, the team’s festivities blended strategic preparation with cultural celebration. Players and staff took time off from net sessions to indulge in the traditional Holi revelry, with colors flying and music echoing through the camp. PBKS’s Holi celebration was a testament to their efforts to build a cohesive unit as they aim to improve on their past performances in IPL 2025.

Rajasthan Royals: Rahul Dravid leads with resilience

Rajasthan Royals (RR) added a heartwarming twist to their Holi celebrations in Jaipur. Head coach Rahul Draviddespite being confined to a wheelchair due to a recent injury sustained while playing cricket in Bengaluru, was at the heart of the festivities. Young stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Paragand Dhruv jurel surrounded their mentor, ensuring he was covered in colors alongside the rest of the team. The Royals’ celebration highlighted their resilience and team spirit, qualities they’ll carry into the IPL season as they aim for their second title.

Lucknow Super Giants: Holi celebration in Nawabi style

The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) brought a touch of regal flair to their Holi celebrations this year, embracing the festival in true Nawabi style at their training camp. Known for their elegant team ethos, LSG players swapped their cricket kits for traditional kurtas, immersing themselves in a sophisticated yet spirited celebration. Stars like Rishabh pant, nicholas pooran and others were spotted enjoying the celebrations.

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