The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline highlights one of the IPL’s most followed and star-driven rivalries. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) bring massive fan power, iconic batters, and aggressive intent, while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) counter with championship pedigree, tactical leadership, and match-winning all-rounders.
Over the years, KKR vs RCB matches have delivered unforgettable batting masterclasses, dramatic collapses, dominant bowling spells, and nail-biting finishes, making this rivalry a fan favorite every IPL season.
Overview of KKR vs RCB Rivalry in IPL
The rivalry between the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru began in the inaugural IPL season in 2008. KKR made a statement early with a dominant opening match win, setting the tone for an intense rivalry.
What makes this matchup special is the contrast in team identity. RCB are known for star-heavy batting lineups and high-scoring games, while KKR focus on balance, spin dominance, and smart game plans.
Key rivalry traits:
- Explosive top-order batting
- Big-name international stars
- High-scoring thrillers and sudden collapses
KKR vs RCB Head-to-Head Record (Overall)
| Stat | Record |
| Total Matches | 30+ |
| Kolkata Knight Riders Win | 18+ |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru Wins | 14+ |
| No Result | 0 |
| Highest Team Score | 220+ |
| Lowest Team Score | Under 60 |
KKR holds a historical edge, but several RCB victories have come through iconic individual performances.
Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Timeline (Season-by-Season)
| Season | Winning Team | Venue |
| 2008 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Bengaluru |
| 2009 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Cape Town |
| 2010 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2011 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Bengaluru |
| 2012 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2013 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Bengaluru |
| 2014 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Sharjah |
| 2015 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Bengaluru |
| 2017 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2019 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2021 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Abu Dhabi |
| 2023 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Bengaluru |
| 2024 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2025 | Abandoned | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium |
This timeline reflects KKR’s long-term dominance, mixed with memorable RCB moments driven by star performances.
KKR vs RCB: Most Memorable Matches
- 2008 Opening Match: KKR announced themselves with a massive win, setting early rivalry momentum.
- 2017 RCB Collapse: KKR bowled RCB out for a record-low total, one of the most talked-about IPL matches.
- 2019 Last-Over Thriller: A tense finish that showcased pressure handling and tactical brilliance.
These games defined the emotional intensity of the KKR vs RCB rivalry.
KKR vs RCB Playoffs & High-Pressure Matches
KKR and RCB have met only a few times in high-stakes scenarios, but many league matches between them have directly impacted playoff qualification.
| Match Type | Season | Winner | Margin |
| High-Pressure League Match | 2017 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Big Margin |
| Qualification-Deciding Match | 2021 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Close |
Both teams have delivered under pressure when it mattered most.
Top Performers in KKR vs RCB Matches
Most Runs in KKR vs RCB Matches
| Player | Team | Runs |
| Virat Kohli | RCB | 500+ |
| AB de Villiers | RCB | 450+ |
| Gautam Gambhir | KKR | 400+ |
| Andre Russell | KKR | 350+ |
Most Wickets in KKR vs RCB Matches
| Player | Team | Wickets |
| Sunil Narine | KKR | 20+ |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | RCB | 15+ |
| Varun Chakravarthy | KKR | 14+ |
| Umesh Yadav | KKR | 12+ |
These players have repeatedly shaped outcomes in KKR vs RCB encounters.
KKR vs RCB: Venue-Wise Performance
| Venue | KKR Wins | RCB Wins |
| Eden Gardens | High | Few |
| M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | Few | High |
| Neutral Venues | Balanced | Balanced |
Home conditions have played a major role in determining match results.
Recent KKR vs RCB Matches (Last 5 Encounters)
- 2025: KKR won convincingly
- 2024: KKR dominated with all-around performance
- 2023: KKR comfortable chase
- 2022: RCB’s narrow victory
- 2021: RCB defended the total successfully
Recent seasons clearly show KKR maintaining an edge.
Key Stats & Interesting Facts (KKR vs RCB)
- One of the lowest team totals in IPL history occurred in the KKR vs RCB matches
- RCB legends have scored multiple centuries against KKR
- KKR spinners enjoy exceptional economy rates in this rivalry
- Several matches were decided within the final overs
These stats underline why this rivalry remains unpredictable.
Why KKR vs RCB Is One of IPL’s Most Popular Rivalries?
The KKR vs RCB rivalry thrives on star power versus structure. RCB relies heavily on elite batters and aggressive gameplay, while KKR counters with balance, spin strength, and tactical discipline.
This clash of styles guarantees excitement every season, regardless of league positions.
Conclusion: KKR vs RCB Timeline in IPL History
The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline is packed with iconic moments, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable games. While KKR enjoys a superior head-to-head record, RCB’s star-driven victories keep the rivalry alive and fiercely competitive.
As both teams continue to evolve, future KKR vs RCB clashes promise even more thrilling chapters in IPL history.
FAQs
1. What is the head-to-head record of KKR vs RCB?
KKR leads RCB by a clear margin in overall IPL encounters.
2. Which team is stronger, KKR or RCB?
Historically, KKR is stronger due to IPL titles and consistency.
3. Who has scored the most runs in KKR vs RCB matches?
Virat Kohli leads the charts with the highest runs.
4. What is the most memorable KKR vs RCB match?
The 2017 match, in which RCB were bowled out for a record-low score, remains unforgettable.

