Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline
The clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is one of the most electrifying rivalries in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since the IPL’s inception in 2008, these two teams have produced thrilling matches, breathtaking performances, and dramatic finishes that cricket fans around the world cherish.
Over the years, RCB and KKR have faced each other multiple times, with each team experiencing periods of dominance. As of the 2025 IPL season, they have played over 35 official matches against each other. KKR holds a slight edge in wins overall, but RCB has also claimed victory in many crucial encounters, making this matchup one of the most unpredictable and exciting in the league.
This article presents a chronological timeline of all RCB vs KKR matches, highlights the key moments and patterns in the rivalry, and provides an in-depth analysis of why this contest is so special in the IPL context.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Rivalry
Head-to-Head Overview
- Total Matches Played: ~35
- KKR Wins: ~20
- RCB Wins: ~15
- No Results: Some matches were abandoned due to rain or other reasons
The rivalry is notable for close finishes, explosive batting performances, and standout individual contributions. Both teams have featured legends who have turned games single-handedly, such as Virat Kohli, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Brendon McCullum, AB de Villiers, and others.
Over time, the momentum has swung between the teams, making each encounter highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
RCB vs KKR Timeline: Match-by-Match History
Below is a chronological timeline of all IPL matches between RCB and KKR. The table includes date, IPL season, winner, result, and venue.
| Date | Match (IPL Season) | Winner | Margin / Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08-May-2008 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 5 runs | Kolkata |
| 18-Apr-2008 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 140 runs | Bengaluru |
| 29-Apr-2009 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 5 wickets | Durban |
| 12-May-2009 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 6 wickets | Centurion |
| 14-Mar-2010 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 7 wickets | Kolkata |
| 10-Apr-2010 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 7 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 22-Apr-2011 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 9 wickets | Kolkata |
| 14-May-2011 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 4 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 10-Apr-2012 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 42 runs | Bengaluru |
| 28-Apr-2012 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 47 runs | Kolkata |
| 11-Apr-2013 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 8 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 12-May-2013 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 5 wickets | Ranchi |
| 24-Apr-2014 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 2 runs | Sharjah |
| 22-May-2014 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 30 runs | Kolkata |
| 11-Apr-2015 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 3 wickets | Kolkata |
| 02-May-2015 | KKR vs RCB | RCB | Won by 7 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 16-May-2016 | KKR vs RCB | RCB | Won by 9 wickets | Kolkata |
| 23-Apr-2017 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 82 runs | Kolkata |
| 07-May-2017 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 6 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 08-Apr-2018 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 4 wickets | Kolkata |
| 29-Apr-2018 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 6 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 05-Apr-2019 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 5 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 19-Apr-2019 | KKR vs RCB | RCB | Won by 10 runs | Kolkata |
| 12-Oct-2020 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 82 runs | Sharjah |
| 21-Oct-2020 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 8 wickets | Abu Dhabi |
| 18-Apr-2021 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 38 runs | Chennai |
| 20-Sep-2021 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 9 wickets | Abu Dhabi |
| 11-Oct-2021 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 4 wickets | Sharjah |
| 30-Mar-2022 | RCB vs KKR | RCB | Won by 3 wickets | Navi Mumbai |
| 06-Apr-2023 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 81 runs | Kolkata |
| 26-Apr-2023 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 21 runs | Bengaluru |
| 29-Mar-2024 | RCB vs KKR | KKR | Won by 7 wickets | Bengaluru |
| 21-Apr-2024 | KKR vs RCB | KKR | Won by 1 run | Kolkata |
| 22-Mar-2025 | KKR vs RCB | RCB | Won by 7 wickets | Kolkata |
| 17-May-2025 | RCB vs KKR | Abandoned | No Result (rain) | Bengaluru |
Key Moments in the Rivalry
1. The First Match (2008)
The inaugural IPL season saw KKR dominate RCB, setting the tone for an intense rivalry. The early battles were largely dominated by KKR’s bowling and batting depth.
2. RCB’s Comebacks
RCB has often bounced back spectacularly, particularly in UAE seasons during 2020 and 2021, where their batting line-up led to several emphatic wins.
3. KKR’s Dominance (2017-2019)
During the late 2010s, KKR consistently defeated RCB, often with commanding margins. Their tactical depth and bowling strength gave them the upper hand.
4. Nail-Biting Finishes
Some matches, like the 21-Apr-2024 game, were decided by a single run, highlighting the closeness and competitive nature of this rivalry.
5. Weather Interruptions
The May 17, 2025 match in Bengaluru was abandoned due to rain — a rare instance in IPL history between these two teams.
Patterns and Trends
Batting First vs Chasing
- KKR has traditionally performed well batting first.
- RCB has often excelled in chasing big totals, relying on power hitters and strategic partnerships.
Home Advantage
While both teams perform better at home, neutral venues like UAE during the pandemic seasons have made matches more unpredictable.
Player Impact
Key players like Virat Kohli, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and AB de Villiers often decide matches through individual brilliance.
Why the Rivalry Matters
This rivalry is more than numbers. It represents high-pressure T20 cricket, strategic gameplay, and fan engagement. Every match adds a new chapter to IPL history and creates iconic moments that are remembered for years.
Even though KKR has more wins overall, RCB’s victories are often memorable, either through bold chases or disciplined bowling performances. The unpredictability and excitement make this one of the most beloved rivalries in IPL cricket.
Conclusion
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline shows a rich and competitive history. From the first season of the IPL to the latest 2025 matches, both teams have delivered thrilling performances, unforgettable finishes, and remarkable individual contributions.
As future IPL seasons unfold, fans can expect more high-intensity encounters between RCB and KKR, keeping this rivalry alive and continuing to deliver some of the most exciting cricket in the world.
