This sets the stage for a pulsating IPL 2026 showdown between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic Eden Gardens.
The match, starting at 3:30 PM IST, is an afternoon fixture-the first of its kind this season in Kolkata, where the sun blazes directly over the historic venue. Players will battle not just each other but the relentless heat as the mercury climbs during the powerplay and middle overs.
Kolkata Weather Today
On April 19, 2026, Kolkata is experiencing a classic pre-monsoon scorcher typical of mid-April. Daytime temperatures are hovering in the high 30s to low 40s Celsius (around 97-104°F), with forecasts indicating a maximum near 38-40°C and minimums around 27°C. Humidity levels remain elevated at 60-70%, pushing the RealFeel
temperature closer to 43-45°C during peak afternoon hours. Skies are mostly sunny to partly cloudy with minimal chance of rain, accompanied by light southerly winds.
The conditions promise to be scorching and physically demanding. Fielders chasing leather under the blazing sun risk rapid dehydration and fatigue, while batters face a dry, batting-friendly Eden pitch that offers true bounce but little respite from the glare. Bowlers, particularly pacers, may struggle with grip on sweaty hands, and spinners could find some turn as the surface bakes further. Humidity amplifies discomfort, making every sprint and dive feel like a test of endurance.
KKR vs RR: Commentators Seen without Blazer, Ian Bishop Apologises
And the conditions are so steamy that the IPL commentators were seen without wearing their customary Blazer curated for live coverage on the field. West Indies commentator Ian Bishop did his Pitch Report without a blazer and apologized for it, citing the conditions. And the heat and humidity of Kolkata is such that it was quite palpable as the former pacer was all drenched in sweat. During the toss, Murali Kartik was also seen without his blazer as his shirt was also not tucked in thanks to the heat.
