The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians timeline represents one of the most intense and high-profile rivalries in Indian Premier League (IPL) history. Mumbai Indians (MI), the most successful IPL franchise, are known for their champion mindset and match-winning depth, while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bring flair, fearless batting, and spin dominance.
Over the years, KKR vs MI matches have delivered iconic finals, playoff thrillers, dramatic turnarounds, and legendary individual performances, making this rivalry a fan favorite across IPL seasons.
Overview of KKR vs MI Rivalry in IPL
The rivalry between the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Mumbai Indians began in the inaugural IPL season in 2008. While the Mumbai Indians dominated the early and middle phases of IPL history, KKR gradually emerged as a strong challenger with title-winning squads and tactical innovation.
What makes this rivalry special is its big-match intensity, several encounters came in playoffs and finals, where pressure and expectations were at their peak.
Key rivalry traits:
- Power-packed batting lineups
- World-class all-rounders
- High-pressure playoff clashes
- Tactical battles between captains
KKR vs MI Head-to-Head Record (Overall)
| Stat | Record |
| Total Matches | 30+ |
| Mumbai Indians Win | 20+ |
| Kolkata Knight Riders Win | 10+ |
| No Result | 0 |
| Highest Team Score | 230+ |
| Lowest Team Score | Under 80 |
Despite the Mumbai Indians holding a clear overall advantage, KKR have produced crucial wins in knockout matches, altering the narrative of dominance.
Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians Timeline (Season-by-Season)
| Season | Winning Team | Venue |
| 2008 | Mumbai Indians | Kolkata |
| 2009 | Mumbai Indians | Cape Town |
| 2010 | Mumbai Indians | Mumbai |
| 2011 | Mumbai Indians | Eden Gardens |
| 2012 | Mumbai Indians | Mumbai |
| 2014 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Cuttack |
| 2015 | Mumbai Indians | Kolkata |
| 2017 | Mumbai Indians | Hyderabad |
| 2019 | Mumbai Indians | Mumbai |
| 2020 | Mumbai Indians | Abu Dhabi |
| 2021 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Chennai |
| 2023 | Mumbai Indians | Mumbai |
| 2024 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata |
| 2025 | Mumbai Indians | Wankhede Stadium |
This timeline highlights the Mumbai Indians’ historical dominance, balanced by KKR’s high-impact victories in crucial seasons.
KKR vs MI: Most Memorable Matches
- 2015 IPL Final: Mumbai Indians defeated KKR convincingly to lift their second IPL trophy, showcasing big-match temperament.
- 2017 IPL Final: One of the closest finals in IPL history, MI defended a small total by just 1 run, breaking KKR’s hearts.
- 2021 Comeback Match: KKR chased a stiff target with fearless batting, marking one of their most memorable wins over MI.
These matches define the legacy and emotional weight of the KKR vs MI rivalry.
KKR vs MI Playoffs & High-Pressure Matches
Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders have faced each other multiple times in playoffs and IPL finals, making this rivalry more prestigious than most.
| Match Type | Season | Winner | Margin |
| IPL Final | 2015 | Mumbai Indians | Comfortable |
| IPL Final | 2017 | Mumbai Indians | 1 Run |
| Qualifier | 2021 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Convincing |
Mumbai’s composure under pressure contrasts with KKR’s fearless playoff approach.
Top Performers in KKR vs MI Matches
Most Runs in KKR vs MI Matches
| Player | Team | Runs |
| Rohit Sharma | MI | 600+ |
| Gautam Gambhir | KKR | 450+ |
| Suryakumar Yadav | MI | 400+ |
| Andre Russell | KKR | 380+ |
Most Wickets in KKR vs MI Matches
| Player | Team | Wickets |
| Lasith Malinga | MI | 20+ |
| Sunil Narine | KKR | 18+ |
| Jasprit Bumrah | MI | 15+ |
| Piyush Chawla | KKR | 12+ |
These players have consistently shaped outcomes in KKR vs MI encounters.
KKR vs MI: Venue-Wise Performance
| Venue | KKR Wins | MI Wins |
| Eden Gardens | Moderate | Few |
| Wankhede Stadium | Few | High |
| Neutral Venues | Balanced | Balanced |
Home advantage has often played a key role, especially at Wankhede Stadium.
Recent KKR vs MI Matches (Last 5 Encounters)
- 2025: MI won convincingly
- 2024: KKR dominant home victory\
- 2023: MI controlled chase
- 2022: MI defended total
- 2021: KKR’s memorable win
Recent seasons show the Mumbai Indians maintaining an edge, though KKR remain dangerous.
Key Stats & Interesting Facts (KKR vs MI)
- The Mumbai Indians have beaten the KKR in two IPL finals
- KKR is among the few teams to defeat MI in the playoffs multiple times
- Several matches were decided in the last overs
- Some of IPL’s lowest defended totals occurred in this rivalry
These facts highlight the drama and legacy of KKR vs MI clashes.
Why One of the Biggest IPL Rivalries Is KKR vs. MI?
The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians rivalry is built on success, pressure, and contrasting styles. MI relies on experience and depth, while KKR thrives on aggressive intent and spin strategy.
Every encounter carries the weight of past finals, playoff heartbreaks, and title aspirations.
Conclusion: KKR vs MI Timeline in IPL History
The KKR vs MI timeline reflects dominance, resilience, and unforgettable IPL moments. While the Mumbai Indians enjoy a superior head-to-head record, the Kolkata Knight Riders’ ability to challenge MI in big games keeps the rivalry alive and compelling.
As both franchises evolve with new talent and strategies, future KKR vs MI matches promise even more iconic chapters in IPL history.
FAQs
1. What is the head-to-head record of KKR vs MI?
Mumbai Indians lead the overall IPL head-to-head against Kolkata Knight Riders.
2. Who is stronger, KKR or MI?
Historically, the Mumbai Indians are stronger due to more IPL titles and final wins.
3. How many IPL finals have KKR and MI played together?
They have met twice in IPL finals, both won by the Mumbai Indians.
4. What is the most famous KKR vs MI match?
The 2017 IPL Final, decided by just one run, is the most iconic match.

