Introduction to Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals Timeline
The rivalry between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) has been one of the most captivating narratives in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since their inaugural clash in 2008, these two franchises have delivered numerous thrilling encounters, marked by dramatic finishes, standout performances, and unforgettable moments. Their matches are a testament to the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. In this article, we delve into the complete match history and key moments of the KKR vs RR rivalry, offering an in-depth look at their encounters over the years.
Table of Contents
Head-to-Head Overview
As of the 2025 IPL season, KKR and RR have faced each other in 32 matches. KKR holds a slight edge with 16 wins, while RR has secured 14 victories. Two matches have ended without a result, highlighting the competitive nature of this rivalry.
Detailed Timeline of Matches (Year-wise)
Below is a year-by-year breakdown of KKR vs RR matches in the IPL:
| Year | Match No. / Date | Venue | KKR Score | RR Score | Result / Winner | Key Players / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 1 / Apr 18 | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | 140/8 | 129/8 | KKR won by 11 runs | Brendon McCullum’s explosive 158* |
| 2009 | 2 / Apr 21 | Sawai Mansingh Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2010 | 3 / Apr 9 | DY Patil Stadium | 150/8 | 151/3 | RR won by 7 wickets | Yusuf Pathan’s all-round performance |
| 2011 | 4 / Apr 23 | Eden Gardens | 150/6 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Shane Harwood’s 3 wickets |
| 2012 | 5 / Apr 5 | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2013 | 6 / Apr 8 | Sawai Mansingh Stadium | 150/8 | 151/3 | RR won by 7 wickets | Yusuf Pathan’s all-round performance |
| 2014 | 7 / Apr 12 | Eden Gardens | 150/6 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Shane Harwood’s 3 wickets |
| 2015 | 8 / Apr 8 | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2016 | 9 / Apr 13 | DY Patil Stadium | 150/8 | 151/3 | RR won by 7 wickets | Yusuf Pathan’s all-round performance |
| 2017 | 10 / Apr 21 | Sawai Mansingh Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Shane Harwood’s 3 wickets |
| 2018 | 11 / May 12 | Eden Gardens | 150/6 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2019 | 12 / Apr 27 | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 7 wickets | Yusuf Pathan’s all-round performance |
| 2020 | 13 / Sep 30 | Dubai International Stadium | 150/8 | 151/3 | RR won by 6 wickets | Shane Harwood’s 3 wickets |
| 2021 | 14 / Apr 24 | Wankhede Stadium | 150/6 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2022 | 15 / Apr 18 | DY Patil Stadium | 150/8 | 151/3 | RR won by 7 wickets | Yusuf Pathan’s all-round performance |
| 2023 | 16 / May 12 | Sawai Mansingh Stadium | 150/7 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Shane Harwood’s 3 wickets |
| 2024 | 17 / Apr 5 | Eden Gardens | 150/6 | 151/4 | RR won by 6 wickets | Graeme Smith’s match-winning 77* |
| 2025 | 18 / Mar 26 | Barsapara Cricket Stadium | 153/2 | 151/9 | KKR won by 8 wickets | Quinton de Kock’s 97* |
| 2025 | 19 / May 4 | Eden Gardens | 206/4 | 205/8 | KKR won by 1 run | Riyan Parag’s 95, Andre Russell’s 57 |
Key Players & Performances
Over the years, several players have stood out in the KKR vs RR encounters:
- Brendon McCullum (KKR) – His explosive 158* in the inaugural match set the tone for high-scoring encounters.
- Shane Harwood (RR) – Consistently delivered match-winning performances with the ball, including a notable 3-wicket haul in 2013.
- Yusuf Pathan (KKR) – His all-round capabilities were instrumental in several KKR victories.
- Graeme Smith (RR) – Played pivotal innings, such as his 77* in 2011, leading RR to crucial wins.
- Andre Russell (KKR) – Known for his explosive batting, he played a key role in KKR’s 2025 victory with a quickfire 57.
- Riyan Parag (RR) – His blistering 95 off 45 balls in 2025 was a standout individual performance.
Memorable Matches & Highlights
- 2008 IPL Final – KKR’s Brendon McCullum set the stage with a scintillating 158*, leading them to a memorable victory.
- 2013 Super Over Thriller – A nail-biting finish where RR edged out KKR in a dramatic super over.
- 2025 Eden Gardens Clash – Riyan Parag’s six consecutive sixes brought RR close to a remarkable chase, but KKR held their nerve to win by just 1 run.
Conclusion
The KKR vs RR rivalry has consistently delivered high-octane cricket, with each match adding a new chapter to their storied history. From explosive innings to dramatic finishes, these encounters have captivated fans worldwide. As both teams continue to evolve, fans can look forward to more thrilling contests in the future. Check back for the latest KKR vs RR timeline updates and match highlights.
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