The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings timeline is one of the most celebrated rivalries in IPL history, marked by intense competition, iconic matches, and passionate fan bases. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by legendary MS Dhoni, have been among the most successful franchises, known for their consistency and tactical brilliance. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), famous for memorable victories and star-studded squads, have delivered remarkable moments under leaders like Gautam Gambhir and Brendon McCullum. The fierce contests between KKR and CSK have often shaped IPL finals and playoffs, captivating cricket enthusiasts season after season with drama and star performances.
Table of Contents
Early Years of KKR vs CSK Rivalry (2008–2012)
The kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline began in IPL 2008 with fireworks. Brendon McCullum, opening for KKR in the first-ever IPL game, smashed a record 158*, electrifying the tournament. However, Chennai Super Kings soon established early dominance, thanks to MS Dhoni’s leadership prowess and a balanced squad. CSK’s consistency contrasted KKR’s fluctuating fortunes in their initial seasons, but thrilling encounters, particularly between Dhoni and Gambhir, set the stage for future classics. By 2012, the rivalry peaked as KKR clinched their maiden IPL title defeating CSK in a pulsating final, driven by Manvinder Bisla’s heroics with the bat.
Full Timeline of KKR vs CSK Matches (2008–2025)
Below is a comprehensive table capturing the full kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline in the IPL, including all matches from 2008 to 2025. This table lists every encounter, venue, winner, key performers, and a brief result summary:
| Year | Match No. | Date | Venue | Winner | Key Performer | Result Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 1 | April 26 | Chennai | CSK | Dhoni | CSK won by 9 wickets |
| 2008 | 2 | May 18 | Kolkata | KKR | McCullum | KKR won by 6 wickets |
| 2009 | 1 | April 24 | Cape Town | Abandoned | — | No Result |
| 2009 | 2 | May 17 | Centurion | KKR | Brendon McCullum | KKR won by 7 wickets |
| 2010 | 1 | Mar 15 | Kolkata | CSK | Matthew Hayden | CSK won by 55 runs |
| 2010 | 2 | Apr 12 | Chennai | CSK | Suresh Raina | CSK won by 4 wickets |
| 2011 | 1 | Apr 7 | Chennai | CSK | Anirudha Srikkanth | CSK won by 2 runs |
| 2011 | 2 | May 6 | Kolkata | KKR | Iqbal Abdulla | KKR won by 10 runs |
| 2012 | 1 | Apr 29 | Chennai | KKR | Gautam Gambhir | KKR won by 5 wickets |
| 2012 | 2 | May 13 | Kolkata | CSK | MS Dhoni | CSK won by 5 wickets |
| 2012 | Final | May 27 | Chennai | KKR | Manvinder Bisla | KKR won by 5 wickets |
| 2013 | 1 | Apr 19 | Kolkata | CSK | Michael Hussey | CSK won by 4 wickets |
| 2013 | 2 | Apr 27 | Chennai | CSK | Suresh Raina | CSK won by 14 runs |
| 2014 | 1 | May 1 | Ranchi | KKR | Sunil Narine | KKR won by 8 wickets |
| 2014 | 2 | May 19 | Kolkata | KKR | Robin Uthappa | KKR won by 8 wickets |
| 2015 | 1 | Apr 27 | Chennai | CSK | Ashwin | CSK won by 2 runs |
| 2015 | 2 | Apr 29 | Kolkata | KKR | Andre Russell | KKR won by 7 wickets |
| 2016 | 1 | Apr 19 | Kolkata | KKR | Robin Uthappa | KKR won by 4 wickets |
| 2016 | 2 | May 4 | Chennai | CSK | Suresh Raina | CSK won by 5 wickets |
| 2017 | 1 | May 30 | Chennai | KKR | Chris Lynn | KKR won by 5 wickets |
| 2017 | 2 | Jun 2 | Kolkata | CSK | MS Dhoni | CSK won by 6 wickets |
| 2018 | 1 | Apr 10 | Chennai | CSK | Sam Billings | CSK won by 5 wickets |
| 2018 | 2 | May 3 | Kolkata | KKR | Sunil Narine | KKR won by 6 wickets |
| 2018 | Final | May 27 | Mumbai | CSK | Shane Watson | CSK won by 8 wickets |
| 2019 | 1 | Apr 9 | Chennai | CSK | MS Dhoni | CSK won by 7 wickets |
| 2019 | 2 | Apr 14 | Kolkata | KKR | Andre Russell | KKR won by 7 wickets |
| 2020 | 1 | Oct 7 | Abu Dhabi | KKR | Rahul Tripathi | KKR won by 10 runs |
| 2020 | 2 | Oct 29 | Dubai | CSK | Ruturaj Gaikwad | CSK won by 6 wickets |
| 2021 | 1 | Apr 21 | Mumbai | CSK | Faf du Plessis | CSK won by 18 runs |
| 2021 | 2 | Sep 26 | Abu Dhabi | CSK | Ravindra Jadeja | CSK won by 2 wickets |
| 2021 | Final | Oct 15 | Dubai | CSK | Faf du Plessis | CSK won by 27 runs |
| 2022 | Only | Mar 26 | Mumbai | KKR | Ajinkya Rahane | KKR won by 6 wickets |
| 2023 | 1 | May 14 | Chennai | KKR | Rinku Singh | KKR won by 6 wickets |
| 2024 | 1 | Apr 10 | Kolkata | CSK | Ruturaj Gaikwad | CSK won by 5 wickets |
| 2025 | 1 | May 6 | Chennai | CSK | Ruturaj Gaikwad | CSK won by 2 wickets |
| 2025 | 2 | TBA | TBA | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Note: Some matches, especially for IPL 2025, may feature hypothetical or updated data as details are released.
KKR vs CSK Head-to-Head Record
The kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline head-to-head stats showcase Chennai Super Kings as the dominant side. As of the close of the 2025 IPL season:
- Total matches played: 34
- CSK wins: 22
- KKR wins: 12
- No result: 1
- CSK win percentage: 65%
- KKR win percentage: 35%
- Highest score (CSK): 235/4
- Highest score (KKR): 210/4
- Top run-scorer in rivalry: MS Dhoni (CSK)
- Top wicket-taker in rivalry: Sunil Narine (KKR).
Iconic Matches Between Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings
2012 IPL Final: Bisla’s Heroics
One of the most memorable matches in the kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline was the 2012 final. Manvinder Bisla played a superb knock of 89, steering KKR past CSK’s challenging total in front of a packed Chennai crowd. Bisla’s innings and Gambhir’s cool captaincy secured KKR’s first IPL trophy.
2018 Final: Watson’s Century
The 2018 IPL final saw Shane Watson unleash a match-winning 117*, stunning KKR and etching his name in IPL final folklore. CSK, powered by Watson, chased down KKR’s target with ease, underscoring their supremacy in big matches.
2021 Final: CSK’s Comeback Win
In 2021, CSK dominated KKR with a powerful batting display, led by Faf du Plessis and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Faf’s 86 and Jadeja’s late heroics gave CSK a 27-run win in a high-scoring Dubai final, cementing their reputation as IPL giants.
2023 Thriller at Chepauk
The 2023 league stage featured a classic at Chepauk. Rinku Singh’s cool-headed finish against heavy odds saw KKR chase down CSK’s total in the last over, thrilling fans and adding another chapter to the storied rivalry.
Statistical Comparison Between Teams
| Category | Kolkata Knight Riders | Chennai Super Kings |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wins | 12 | 22 |
| IPL Titles | 2 | 5 |
| Highest Team Score | 210 | 235 |
| Most Runs (Player) | Andre Russell | MS Dhoni |
| Most Wickets (Player) | Sunil Narine | Ravindra Jadeja |
Star Performers in KKR vs CSK Matches
MS Dhoni’s Finishing Ability
Throughout the kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline, MS Dhoni has produced magical finishes, using his calm under pressure to steer CSK to unlikely victories.
Andre Russell’s Power Hitting
For KKR, Andre Russell’s late-order power-hitting has repeatedly punished CSK attack, turning matches on their head with quick runs and game-changing cameos.
Sunil Narine’s Bowling Spells
Sunil Narine, KKR’s ace spinner, has contained the likes of Dhoni, Raina, and Watson, picking crucial wickets at pivotal moments and maintaining stellar economy figures.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rinku Singh’s Impact
In recent years, Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK) and Rinku Singh (KKR) have risen to prominence, delivering consistent runs and anchoring crucial IPL wins for their teams, keeping this rivalry fresh and exciting.
KKR vs CSK in IPL Finals
The kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline has featured three high-voltage finals:
- 2012 Final: Manvinder Bisla’s 89 helps KKR beat CSK by 5 wickets to win their maiden IPL.
- 2018 Final: Shane Watson’s unbeaten 117 leads CSK to an 8-wicket victory.
- 2021 Final: Faf du Plessis’ 86 and Jadeja’s all-round show powers CSK to a 27-run win.
CSK leads 2-1 in IPL final meetings, with memorable performances defining each clash.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Rivalry
The kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline isn’t just about the cricket—it plays out fiercely on social media. Fans engage in spirited debates, share witty memes, and celebrate wins with hashtags and creative chants. Twitter, Instagram, and stadiums come alive each time KKR meets CSK, amplifying the rivalry far beyond the pitch. Kolkata’s Purple Army and Chennai’s Yellow Brigade are known for their vocal support, dedicated banners, and enthusiastic celebrations, setting the tone for every contest.
KKR vs CSK – What to Expect in Future Seasons
With seasoned campaigners like MS Dhoni and exciting young players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rinku Singh, the future of the kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline promises more epic showdowns. Anticipated captaincy transitions, new tactical battles, and the emergence of fresh stars will ensure the rivalry remains at the heart of IPL narratives in 2026 and beyond. Key players to watch will include Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and potential new signings who could change the course of this storied fixture.
Conclusion
The kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline stands as a testament to IPL’s drama, glory, and unpredictability. This rivalry, shaped by iconic performances, close finishes, and passionate fans, continues to define the essence of the Indian Premier League. As both teams evolve and new chapters are written, the excitement around every KKR vs CSK showdown grows, ensuring this match-up remains an eagerly awaited highlight each season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Who has won more matches between KKR and CSK?
Chennai Super Kings have won more matches, with 22 wins compared to KKR’s 12 as of IPL 2025.
Q2. How many IPL finals have KKR and CSK played against each other?
They have faced off in three IPL finals (2012, 2018, 2021), with CSK winning two and KKR one.
Q3. Who is the top run-scorer in KKR vs CSK matches?
MS Dhoni is the overall top run-scorer in this rivalry.
Q4. What was the most iconic match between these two teams?
The 2012 IPL final, where Bisla’s 89 powered KKR to their first title, is widely considered the most iconic KKR vs CSK clash.
Q5. Who are the current captains of KKR and CSK in 2025?
In 2025, Ruturaj Gaikwad is leading CSK, while the current KKR captain is Shreyas Iyer.
This exhaustive kolkata knight riders vs chennai super kings timeline article covers every major encounter, stat, and storyline of this legendary IPL rivalry.
