Mumbai, March 23 -- Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has heaped praise on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after their dominant performance against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the opening game of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Speaking about the team's well-balanced setup on JioHotstar, Hayden expressed optimism about their prospects this season.

"It was an emphatic and important victory for Rajat Patidar as the new captain. Having Virat Kohli in great form certainly helps," JioStar expert Matthew Hayden remarked, highlighting the significance of Patidar's leadership and Kohli's batting prowess.

RCB's bowling attack also impressed the former Australian opener. He singled out Krunal Pandya's effectiveness in the...