When people talk about the Indian Premier League (IPL), one rivalry always comes up first — RCB vs KKR. Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders. Red vs Purple. Virat Kohli vs Shah Rukh Khan’s team. Bengaluru vs Kolkata.
This is not just a cricket match. Every time these two teams play, millions of fans stop everything they are doing and sit in front of their screens. Social media blows up. Stadiums go crazy. And almost every single time, something special happens on the field.
But what makes this rivalry so special? Why do fans love it so much? And who has the upper hand?
In this article, we are going to cover everything. We will introduce both teams fully, go through every single match they have ever played with detailed scores and summaries, compare the two franchises in every possible way, and then look at what is happening in IPL 2026.
WHAT IS THE IPL?
The Indian Premier League, known as IPL, is the most popular cricket tournament in the world. It started in 2008 and is held every year in India. Ten city-based teams play a fast and exciting type of cricket called T20. In T20, each team only bats for 20 overs (120 balls). This makes the game quick, loud, and full of big hits and drama.
The IPL is like the NBA or the Premier League of cricket. Star players from all over the world — India, Australia, England, West Indies, and more — come together and play for these ten franchises. The IPL was valued at over 18.5 billion US dollars in 2025, making it one of the most valuable sports leagues anywhere on the planet.
And it all started with one match — RCB vs KKR on April 18, 2008.
ROYAL CHALLENGERS BENGALURU (RCB) —
Full Name: Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Short Name: RCB
City: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Home Stadium: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Colors: Red, Gold, and Black
Motto: #PlayBold
IPL Titles: 1 (Won in 2025)
Founded: 2008
Captain in 2026: Rajat Patidar
Coach in 2026: Andy Flower
Kit Maker: Puma
RCB is one of the most famous and most loved cricket teams not just in India, but in the whole world. They are based in Bengaluru, which is a big and modern city in the south of India. Their home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, is one of the loudest cricket venues anywhere on Earth. When RCB plays here, the energy is something else.
RCB was started in 2008 by Vijay Mallya, a famous businessman. For many years, they were known as the team with the most passionate fans but no trophy. They reached the final three times — in 2009, 2011, and 2016 — but lost each time. Their fans still stood by them, season after season, with the famous chant “Ee Sala Cup Namde” which means “This year the cup is ours” in the local Kannada language.
Then in 2025, after 17 long years of heartbreak, RCB finally won their first-ever IPL title. They defeated Punjab Kings in the final at Ahmedabad. The whole of Bengaluru celebrated like never before. Virat Kohli, who had played for RCB since day one in 2008, was in tears. It was one of the most emotional moments in cricket history.
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RCB’s Most Famous Players of All Time:
Virat Kohli — The heart and soul of RCB. He has played for RCB since 2008, making him the only player to ever play for just one IPL team his entire career. He has scored over 8,000 IPL runs — more than anyone else in history. Against KKR specifically, he has scored over 1,000 runs, more than any player in this rivalry.
Chris Gayle — The most feared T20 batter of his generation. Gayle played for RCB from 2011 to 2017 and scored mountains of runs, including the highest ever IPL score of 175 not out.
AB de Villiers — Known as “Mr. 360” because he could hit the ball in every direction. He played for RCB from 2011 to 2021 and is considered one of the greatest T20 players ever.
Glenn Maxwell — An Australian all-rounder who smashed a famous match-winning double century in the IPL 2023 season, playing for RCB while being unwell.
RCB’s New Owners in 2026 — A Historic Change
In March 2026, the biggest ownership change in IPL history happened. RCB was sold for a record 1.78 billion US dollars (approximately 16,660 crore Indian rupees). This is the most expensive franchise sale in cricket history. The new owners are a powerful group of businesses:
— Aditya Birla Group — One of India’s largest companies, run by billionaire Kumar Mangalam Birla. They have businesses in metals, cement, fashion, and retail.
— Times of India Group — India’s largest media company.
— Bolt Ventures — Owned by American sports investor David Blitzer, who also owns NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers, the NHL’s New Jersey Devils, the NFL’s Washington Commanders, and Premier League club Crystal Palace.
— Blackstone — The world’s largest private equity firm.
The new chairman of RCB is Aryaman Vikram Birla, son of Kumar Mangalam Birla. He is unique because he is not just a businessman — he was actually a cricketer himself. He played first-class cricket for Madhya Pradesh and was even in Rajasthan Royals’ IPL squad. So RCB’s new chairman has actually played the game at a high level.
RCB’s Brand Ambassadors and Sponsors:
The biggest commercial draw for RCB has always been Virat Kohli. Even though he is a player, his global popularity brings in massive sponsorships. RCB’s kit is made by Puma. Their major sponsors over the years have included Kingfisher, Myntra, Muthoot Finance, and others. The franchise also runs the RCB Bar and Cafe restaurant chain. With the Times of India Group as new owners, RCB now has unmatched media and marketing power in India.
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KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS (KKR) — FULL INTRODUCTION
Full Name: Kolkata Knight Riders
Short Name: KKR
City: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Home Stadium: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Colors: Purple and Gold
Motto: Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo (We will do, we will fight, we will win)
IPL Titles: 3 (2012, 2014, 2024)
Founded: 2008
Captain in 2026: Ajinkya Rahane
Coach in 2026: Abhishek Nayar
Kit Maker: Wrogn Active
Kolkata Knight Riders, or KKR, represent the city of Kolkata in eastern India. Kolkata is one of India’s most passionate cricket cities, and KKR’s home ground — Eden Gardens — is a legendary stadium. It holds over 66,000 fans and is often called the “Lord’s of India.” The noise inside Eden Gardens during a big match is something no fan will ever forget.
KKR have won the IPL three times: in 2012, 2014, and most recently in 2024. That makes them the third most successful team in IPL history, behind only Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
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KKR’s Owners — Bollywood Meets Business:
KKR is owned by three people: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan (55% stake), actress Juhi Chawla, and her businessman husband Jay Mehta. Their company is called Knight Riders Sports Private Limited.
Shah Rukh Khan is arguably the most famous person in India. He is known worldwide. His involvement with KKR is not just financial — he shows up at matches, cheers loudly, hugs players, and brings his family. This personal connection makes KKR one of the most emotional and talked-about franchises in all of cricket.
In 2026, KKR’s franchise was valued at around 13,000 to 15,000 crore Indian rupees. Shah Rukh Khan originally invested 165 crore rupees back in 2008 for a 55% stake — that investment has grown many times over.
Interesting fact: Shah Rukh originally wanted to buy the Mumbai or Bangalore franchise, but was outbid. He ended up with Kolkata, and turned it into one of the most iconic sports teams in the world. Sometimes things work out better than planned.
The Knight Riders Global Empire:
KKR is not just one team. They have built a global cricket brand through the Knight Riders Group:
— Trinbago Knight Riders (Caribbean Premier League, Trinidad and Tobago)
— LA Knight Riders (Major League Cricket, USA)
— Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20, UAE)
This global approach makes KKR unique among IPL franchises.
KKR’s Most Famous Players of All Time:
Gautam Gambhir — The legendary captain who led KKR to their 2012 and 2014 title wins. He is the all-time leading run-scorer for KKR in the IPL. He later became the head coach of the Indian national team.
Sunil Narine — A left-arm mystery spinner from Trinidad and Tobago. He is the greatest bowler in KKR’s history and has taken more wickets against RCB (27) than any bowler in this rivalry. He is also a dangerous opener with the bat.
Andre Russell — A West Indian all-rounder who was KKR’s most explosive match-winner for many years. His ability to change a game in just 10 to 15 balls made him the most feared finisher in the IPL.
Varun Chakravarthy — A mysterious Indian spinner who pairs with Narine to form the best spin duo in the IPL.
KKR’s 2026 Squad Changes:
For IPL 2026, KKR made big changes. Their most expensive signing was Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for 25.20 crore rupees — a new record for any overseas player in IPL auction history. They also signed Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana for 18 crore rupees and New Zealander Finn Allen. However, they lost star pacer Harshit Rana to knee surgery for the entire 2026 season.
KKR’s Brand Ambassadors and Sponsors:
Shah Rukh Khan is KKR’s biggest brand ambassador — not officially, but in every practical way. His presence makes KKR one of the most followed teams in the world. For 2026, KKR signed Vida EV (Hero MotoCorp’s electric vehicle brand) as their title partner. Other sponsors include Amul, BKT Tyres, Thums Up, Google Gemini, Jio, Google Pay, Kingfisher, and RR Kabel.
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WHY IS RCB VS KKR SUCH A BIG RIVALRY?
There are many IPL rivalries, but RCB vs KKR stands apart for several reasons:
- The very first IPL match in history was between RCB and KKR, on April 18, 2008. So this rivalry is as old as the IPL itself.
- Both teams represent huge, passionate cities. Bengaluru vs Kolkata is always going to create intense emotions.
- Both teams have star power. RCB has Virat Kohli. KKR has Shah Rukh Khan. When these names are involved, the whole country is watching.
- Their matches have produced some of the most dramatic moments in IPL history — the lowest ever team total in IPL (RCB’s 49 all out in 2017), one of the greatest individual innings ever (McCullum’s 158 in 2008), a last-ball run-out thriller (2024), and a playoff knockout (2021).
- The head-to-head record is competitive, which means no match is ever one-sided on paper. KKR leads with 21 wins to RCB’s 15 (as of 2025), but RCB has had seasons where they completely dominated.
ALL MATCHES — SEASON BY SEASON WITH FULL SUMMARIES
Let us now go through every single RCB vs KKR match in IPL history. Each match gets a full summary with scores, top performers, key moments, and the result.
Overall Head-to-Head Record (as of end of 2025 season):
Total Matches: 37 (including 1 no-result)
KKR Wins: 21
RCB Wins: 15
No Result: 1
IPL 2008 — The Beginning of Everything
Match 1
Date: April 18, 2008
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
This Was the Very First Match in IPL History
KKR Innings: 222/3 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 82 all out in 15.1 overs
Result: KKR won by 140 runs
Man of the Match: Brendon McCullum (KKR)
What Happened:
This match was the beginning of everything. The IPL was brand new. Nobody knew what to expect. And then Brendon McCullum walked out to bat for KKR and hit one of the most astonishing innings in cricket history.
McCullum scored 158 not out off just 73 balls. He hit 13 fours and 10 sixes. His strike rate was 216.43. Nobody had ever seen T20 batting like this before. He almost single-handedly scored KKR’s total of 222/3.
RCB then came out to chase 223 and collapsed completely. They were bowled out for just 82 in 15.1 overs. The margin of victory — 140 runs — remains the biggest KKR win over RCB ever.
That night, the IPL proved to the whole world that this was going to be something special. McCullum’s 158* is still considered one of the greatest innings in T20 cricket history.
Match 2
Date: May 8, 2008
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 129/7 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 124/4 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 5 runs
Man of the Match: Sourav Ganguly (KKR)
What Happened:
The second meeting of the 2008 season was played at Eden Gardens in front of a passionate Kolkata crowd. KKR posted 129/7 — a modest total by modern standards. RCB chased hard and got to 124/4, but fell 5 runs short. Sourav Ganguly, the iconic Bengal captain who was KKR’s icon player, was named Man of the Match for his leadership and contribution. KKR won the 2008 season series 2-0.
IPL 2009 — RCB Strikes Back
The 2009 IPL was held in South Africa due to general elections in India. RCB had a much stronger campaign this year and finally got their revenge against KKR, winning both matches.
Match 3
Date: April 29, 2009
Venue: Kingsmead, Durban, South Africa
KKR Innings: 139/6 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 143/5 in 20 overs
Result: RCB won by 5 wickets
Man of the Match: Mark Boucher (RCB)
What Happened:
This was RCB’s first ever win against KKR. South African wicketkeeper Mark Boucher played a key role in finishing the chase. KKR set a target of 140 and RCB chased it down comfortably, winning with 5 wickets in hand. A big moment for RCB fans who had suffered in 2008.
Match 4 — IPL’s 100th Match Ever
Date: May 12, 2009
Venue: Centurion Park, Centurion, South Africa
KKR Innings: 173/4 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 176/4 in 20 overs
Result: RCB won by 6 wickets
Man of the Match: Ross Taylor (RCB)
What Happened:
This was a historic match — it was the 100th match in IPL history. New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor played a stunning knock of 81 not out off just 33 balls. His innings was absolutely explosive and made the chase look easy. RCB chased down 174 with 6 wickets to spare. RCB swept the 2009 series 2-0 against KKR.
IPL 2010 — One Win Each
Match 5
Date: March 14, 2010
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
RCB Innings: 135/7 in 20 overs
KKR Innings: 136/3 in 17.3 overs
Result: KKR won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Manoj Tiwary (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB posted 135/7 which proved to be below par on this ground. KKR chased it down easily, losing only 3 wickets and reaching the target in under 18 overs. Manoj Tiwary was the standout performer for KKR with the bat. KKR won comfortably on their home ground.
Match 6
Date: April 10, 2010
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
KKR Innings: 160/9 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 162/3 in 18.4 overs
Result: RCB won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Vinay Kumar (RCB)
What Happened:
RCB bounced back on their home ground. KKR posted 160/9 — they lost a lot of wickets in the middle overs. Vinay Kumar was excellent with the ball for RCB. When RCB batted, they chased it down with 7 wickets in hand and with 8 balls to spare. The 2010 series ended one win each.
IPL 2011 — Chris Gayle Takes Over
Chris Gayle had joined RCB in 2011 and he was absolutely devastating. RCB swept KKR 2-0 in 2011.
Match 7
Date: April 22, 2011
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 171/5 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 175/1 in 18.3 overs
Result: RCB won by 9 wickets
Man of the Match: Chris Gayle (RCB)
What Happened:
KKR scored 171/5 at Eden Gardens which looked like a competitive total. But Chris Gayle walked out to bat for RCB and destroyed KKR’s bowling. He made it look ridiculously easy. RCB chased 172 losing just 1 wicket. A 9-wicket win away from home is a massive achievement. Gayle’s power-hitting was on a different level.
Match 8 — Rain-Affected Duckworth-Lewis Match
Date: May 14, 2011
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
KKR Innings: 89/4 in 12 overs (match reduced due to rain)
RCB Innings: 105/6 in 11.3 overs (revised target under D/L method)
Result: RCB won by 4 wickets (D/L Method)
Man of the Match: Chris Gayle (RCB)
What Happened:
Rain played a part in this match. KKR batted first and scored 89/4 before rain interrupted. The match was revised under the Duckworth-Lewis method. RCB were set a revised target and chased it down in 11.3 overs with 4 wickets remaining. Gayle again was the key man for RCB. RCB swept the 2011 series 2-0.
IPL 2012 — KKR Win Their First Title and Both Matches
2012 was KKR’s year. They won their first-ever IPL trophy under Gautam Gambhir’s captaincy. They also swept RCB 2-0 in the league stage.
Match 9
Date: April 10, 2012
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
KKR Innings: 165/8 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 123/9 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 42 runs
Man of the Match: Lakshmipathy Balaji (KKR)
What Happened:
KKR posted 165/8 at Bengaluru. Sunil Narine had just joined KKR that year and was already making an impact. When RCB came to bat, Lakshmipathy Balaji tore through them, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs in his 4 overs. RCB were reduced to 123/9 and never recovered. KKR won by 42 runs in a dominant performance.
Match 10
Date: April 28, 2012
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 190/4 in 20 overs
Top Performer: Gautam Gambhir 93 off 51 balls
RCB Innings: 143/6 in 20 overs
Top Performer: Chris Gayle 86 off 58 balls
Result: KKR won by 47 runs
Man of the Match: Gautam Gambhir (KKR)
What Happened:
This was one of Gambhir’s best innings of that title-winning season. He scored 93 off 51 balls at Eden Gardens, leading from the front and taking KKR to 190/4. Chris Gayle tried to take RCB home, scoring 86 off 58 balls, but he could not find enough support from the other end. RCB finished at 143/6 and KKR won by 47 runs. Gambhir was the Man of the Match.
IPL 2013 — KKR Sweep Again
KKR won both matches against RCB in 2013.
Match 11
Date: May 3, 2013
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 159/6 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 125/9 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 34 runs
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
KKR posted 159/6. Sunil Narine was outstanding as a bowler, throttling RCB’s batting with his mystery spin. RCB could only manage 125/9. Narine’s bowling figures were impressive and he was named Man of the Match. KKR dominated.
Match 12
Date: May 12, 2013
Venue: HEC International Cricket Stadium, Ranchi
RCB Innings: 115/9 in 20 overs
KKR Innings: 116/5 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 5 wickets
Man of the Match: Jacques Kallis (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB struggled with the bat in Ranchi, posting a poor 115/9. South African legend Jacques Kallis then played a composed innings for KKR to chase the target in the final over. KKR won by 5 wickets. The 2013 series ended 2-0 to KKR.
IPL 2014 — KKR Win Both Again on the Way to Second Title
KKR swept RCB 2-0 in 2014 as well, and went on to win their second IPL title.
Match 13
Date: April 24, 2014
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Association Stadium, Sharjah, UAE
KKR Innings: 150/7 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 148/5 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 2 runs
Man of the Match: Chris Lynn (KKR)
What Happened:
This was a very close match played in Sharjah. KKR posted 150/7. RCB chased hard and came agonizingly close, finishing at 148/5 — just 2 runs short. Chris Lynn played a brilliant all-round game for KKR, scoring 45 runs and also taking two crucial catches. He was named Man of the Match. A heartbreaking loss for RCB in a match they came so close to winning.
Match 14
Date: May 22, 2014
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 195/4 in 20 overs
Top Performer: Robin Uthappa
RCB Innings: 165/5 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 30 runs
Man of the Match: Robin Uthappa (KKR)
What Happened:
KKR posted a strong 195/4 at Eden Gardens. Robin Uthappa, who had moved to KKR that season and would go on to win the Orange Cap that year, was the key batsman. RCB chased but fell well short, finishing at 165/5. KKR won by 30 runs. The 2014 season series ended 2-0 to KKR, and KKR went on to win the IPL title.
IPL 2015 — RCB’s Comeback — Winning Both Matches
After two seasons of losing both matches, RCB came back strongly in 2015 and swept KKR 2-0.
Match 15
Date: April 11, 2015
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 177/6 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 179/7 in 19.3 overs
Result: RCB won by 3 wickets
Man of the Match: Chris Gayle (RCB)
What Happened:
KKR posted a strong 177/6 at their home ground. Chris Gayle then smashed his way through the KKR bowling attack for RCB. It was a tight chase but RCB got there with 3 wickets left and 3 balls to spare. Gayle’s explosiveness at the top of the order was the difference. RCB started their 2015 season with a big away win.
Match 16 — Rain-Reduced 10-Over Game
Date: May 2, 2015
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Rain reduced this match to 10 overs per side.
KKR Innings: 111/4 in 10 overs
Top Scorer: Andre Russell 45 off 17 balls
RCB Innings: 115/3 in 9.1 overs
Top Scorer: Mandeep Singh 45 off 18 balls
Result: RCB won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Mandeep Singh (RCB)
What Happened:
Andre Russell was absolutely explosive for KKR, smashing 45 off just 17 balls to take KKR to 111/4 in 10 overs. That is a fantastic powerplay total. Mitchell Starc bowled well for RCB, taking 1 wicket but conceding only 15 in his 2 overs.
Then RCB came out to bat. Mandeep Singh was the hero with a quick-fire 45 off 18 balls. RCB chased down 112 in just 9.1 overs, winning by 7 wickets. RCB swept the 2015 season series 2-0.
IPL 2016 — Virat Kohli’s Historic Season
IPL 2016 is famous for Virat Kohli’s extraordinary season. He scored 973 runs — still the record for most runs in a single IPL season. RCB reached the final but lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Against KKR, they split the series one win each.
Match 17
Date: May 2, 2016
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB Innings: 185/7 in 20 overs
KKR Innings: 189/5 in 19.5 overs
Result: KKR won by 5 wickets
Man of the Match: Andre Russell (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB posted 185/7, a good total on their own ground. But Andre Russell decided this was his day. He smashed the ball everywhere in the final overs, taking KKR to a brilliant chase. KKR reached 189/5 with just 1 ball to spare, winning by 5 wickets. Russell’s firepower in the death overs was the difference. He was Man of the Match.
Match 18
Date: May 16, 2016
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 183/5 in 20 overs
RCB Innings: 186/1 in 15.1 overs
Result: RCB won by 9 wickets
Man of the Match: Virat Kohli (RCB)
What Happened:
KKR scored 183/5 at Eden Gardens. And then Virat Kohli walked out and played one of the most dominant innings this rivalry has ever seen. He smashed his way to a magnificent knock (around 75 off just 49 balls), and along with his opening partner, ripped apart KKR’s bowling. RCB chased 184 losing just 1 wicket and getting there in just 15.1 overs. A 9-wicket win at Eden Gardens is simply stunning. Kohli was Man of the Match.
IPL 2017 — The Most Infamous Season in This Rivalry
2017 will always be remembered for two things: the lowest-ever team total in IPL history, and Sunil Narine’s fastest-ever fifty. KKR swept RCB 2-0 and it was brutal.
Match 19 — The 49 All Out Match
Date: April 23, 2017
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 131/5 in 20 overs (KKR had started brilliantly at 48/0 in 3.3 overs before RCB pulled things back)
Key bowlers for RCB: Sreenath Aravind and others
RCB Innings: 49 all out in 9.4 overs
Top scorers for RCB: AB de Villiers 5, Virat Kohli 5
KKR bowlers: Nathan Coulter-Nile 3 wickets, Colin de Grandhomme 3 wickets, Chris Woakes 3 wickets
Result: KKR won by 82 runs
Man of the Match: Nathan Coulter-Nile (KKR)
What Happened:
This match is one that RCB fans try their best to forget. KKR began well at 48/0 in 3.3 overs, then lost some wickets in the middle. RCB bowled them out for 131. That seemed like a manageable target.
Then the unimaginable happened. RCB came out to bat and the KKR bowlers were absolutely vicious. Nathan Coulter-Nile, Colin de Grandhomme, and Chris Woakes each took 3 wickets. Even Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers could do nothing. RCB were bowled out for just 49 runs in 9.4 overs. It is the lowest team total in IPL history, and it still stands today.
KKR won by 82 runs. The whole of Kolkata celebrated. The whole of Bengaluru was in disbelief.
Match 20 — Narine’s Historic 50 off 15 Balls
Date: May 7, 2017
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
KKR Innings: 183/4 in 20 overs
Key performer: Sunil Narine 50 off 15 balls (then the fastest fifty in IPL history)
KKR’s powerplay: highest powerplay score at that time in IPL history
RCB Innings: 130/9 in 20 overs
Result: KKR won by 53 runs
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
Just two weeks after the 49 all out disaster, KKR came to Bengaluru and humiliated RCB again. Sunil Narine opened the batting and smashed 50 off just 15 balls — the fastest fifty in IPL history at that point. KKR’s powerplay total was the highest ever in any IPL match at that time. They finished at 183/4.
RCB tried to chase but managed only 130/9. KKR won by 53 runs. A 2-0 sweep to KKR in 2017, with two utterly dominant performances.
IPL 2018 — KKR Win Both Matches Again
KKR swept RCB 2-0 in 2018 as well. It was another painful season for RCB fans.
Match 21
Date: April 8, 2018
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
RCB Innings: 176/7 in 20 overs
Key performer: Virat Kohli 60, AB de Villiers 63
KKR Innings: 177/6 in 18.5 overs
Key performers: Sunil Narine 50 off 20 balls, Dinesh Karthik, Nitish Rana
Result: KKR won by 4 wickets
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB posted 176/7, a decent total. Kohli made 60 and AB de Villiers contributed 63 in a good partnership. But Sunil Narine opened for KKR and destroyed the chase right from the start. He smashed 50 off just 20 balls. Dinesh Karthik and Nitish Rana made useful contributions lower down. KKR chased the target with 7 balls to spare. Narine was the Man of the Match again.
Match 22
Date: April 29, 2018
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB Innings: 175/6 in 20 overs
KKR Innings: 176/5 in 19.1 overs
Key performers for KKR: Sunil Narine (top scorer at the top), Chris Lynn, Nitish Rana
Result: KKR won by 5 wickets
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB posted 175/6 at home. KKR’s top order once again fired collectively. Narine and Chris Lynn gave KKR a brilliant start. Nitish Rana came in and kept the innings going. KKR chased 176 comfortably, reaching the target in 19.1 overs with 5 wickets to spare. Sunil Narine was the Man of the Match for the second time in the 2018 season against RCB.
KKR swept the 2018 season series 2-0. At this point, KKR had won both matches four times in five years (2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018).
IPL 2019 — Two Absolute Classics
2019 brought two of the most dramatic and most entertaining matches in the history of this rivalry. These two games alone could fill a highlight reel.
Match 23 — Andre Russell’s Greatest IPL Moment
Date: March 31, 2019
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
RCB Innings: 205/3 in 20 overs
Key performers: Virat Kohli 84 off 49 balls, AB de Villiers 63 off 32 balls
KKR Innings: 206/7 in 20 overs
Key performers: Andre Russell 48 off 13 balls, Dinesh Karthik 19 off 15 balls
Result: KKR won by 3 wickets
Man of the Match: Andre Russell (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB batted first and produced one of their best batting performances of the season. Kohli scored 84 off 49 balls and de Villiers blasted 63 off 32 balls. Together they took RCB to 205/3 — a brilliant total.
When KKR came to bat, they were cruising at 28/0 in just 1.3 overs. Then they started losing wickets. By the 16th over, KKR were 139/4 — still needing 67 runs off 25 balls with 6 wickets down. The match seemed over for KKR.
Then Andre Russell walked in.
What happened next is now one of the most replayed moments in IPL history. Russell smashed 48 runs off just 13 balls. At one point he hit Mohammed Siraj for 23 runs in a single over. The Eden Gardens crowd was going absolutely wild. KKR somehow reached 206/7 in the final over to win by 3 wickets. It was miraculous.
Match 24 — Kohli’s 5th IPL Century
Date: April 26, 2019
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB Innings: 213/4 in 20 overs
Key performers: Virat Kohli 100 off 58 balls (5th IPL century), Moeen Ali 66 off 28 balls
KKR Innings: 203/5 in 20 overs
Key performers: Nitish Rana 85 off 46 balls, Andre Russell 65 off 25 balls
Result: RCB won by 10 runs
Man of the Match: Virat Kohli (RCB)
What Happened:
After the heartbreak in Kolkata, RCB struck back in Bengaluru in style. Virat Kohli scored his 5th IPL century — 100 off 58 balls — and Moeen Ali blazed 66 off 28 balls. Together they took RCB to an enormous 213/4.
KKR tried to match it. Nitish Rana was brilliant with 85 off 46 balls and Andre Russell again produced fireworks with 65 off 25 balls. But this time RCB held on. KKR fell 10 runs short, finishing at 203/5. Two back-to-back 200+ score matches with both teams pushing each other to the absolute limit.
IPL 2020 — RCB Dominate in UAE
The 2020 IPL was played entirely in the UAE due to the COVID-19 pandemic. RCB had a strong season and swept KKR 2-0.
Match 25
Date: October 12, 2020
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, UAE
RCB Innings: 194/2 in 20 overs
Key performer: AB de Villiers 73 not out off 33 balls, Virat Kohli 72 off 53 balls
KKR Innings: 112/9 in 20 overs
Key bowler for RCB: Yuzvendra Chahal 4 wickets
Result: RCB won by 82 runs
Man of the Match: AB de Villiers (RCB)
What Happened:
RCB posted 194/2, with AB de Villiers scoring a stunning 73 not out off 33 balls and Kohli making 72. When KKR came to bat, Yuzvendra Chahal was unplayable, spinning through KKR’s lineup and taking 4 wickets. KKR collapsed to 112/9 — their lowest total in this rivalry. RCB won by 82 runs — their biggest ever win against KKR.
Match 26
Date: October 21, 2020
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE
KKR Innings: 84/8 in 20 overs
Key bowler for RCB: Mohammed Siraj
RCB Innings: 85/2 in 10.2 overs
Result: RCB won by 8 wickets
Man of the Match: Mohammed Siraj (RCB)
What Happened:
Mohammed Siraj had an outstanding game with the ball. KKR collapsed catastrophically to just 84/8 — their second-lowest total ever in this rivalry and one of the lowest in IPL history. RCB knocked off the tiny target in just 10.2 overs, losing only 2 wickets. Siraj was Man of the Match. RCB swept the 2020 series 2-0.
IPL 2021 — Three Matches Including a Painful Playoff Elimination
For the first time ever in this rivalry, RCB and KKR played three times in a single season in 2021 — two league matches and one Eliminator match in the playoffs.
Match 27 — League Stage
Date: April 18, 2021
Venue: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
RCB Innings: 204/4 in 20 overs
Key performer: AB de Villiers 76 off 34 balls (final ball six to reach 200)
KKR Innings: 166/8 in 20 overs
Key performers for KKR: Nitish Rana 80 off 56 balls
Key bowler for RCB: Harshal Patel
Result: RCB won by 38 runs
Man of the Match: AB de Villiers (RCB)
What Happened:
AB de Villiers played one of the great knockout blows this match has seen. His 76 off 34 balls — including a six off the very last ball of the RCB innings to take them to 200 — was extraordinary. RCB posted 204/4. KKR chased hard with Nitish Rana making 80, but Harshal Patel was excellent for RCB, taking wickets at crucial moments. KKR finished at 166/8, losing by 38 runs.
Match 28 — League Stage
Date: September 20, 2021
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, UAE
RCB Innings: 92 all out in 19.4 overs
Key KKR bowler: Varun Chakravarthy 4/30
KKR Innings: 94/1 in 10 overs
Key performer: Shubman Gill
Result: KKR won by 9 wickets
Man of the Match: Varun Chakravarthy (KKR)
What Happened:
This was a complete reversal from the first match. Varun Chakravarthy was unplayable for KKR, taking 4 wickets for just 30 runs. RCB collapsed to 92 all out. KKR chased the tiny target in just 10 overs, losing only 1 wicket. Shubman Gill was calm and composed at the top. KKR won by 9 wickets — a massive victory.
Match 29 — IPL 2021 Eliminator (PLAYOFF MATCH)
Date: October 11, 2021
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah, UAE
RCB Innings: 138/7 in 20 overs
Key performer: Glenn Maxwell 40
KKR Innings: 139/6 in 19.4 overs
Key performers: Sunil Narine 26 off 15 balls plus 4 wickets as bowler
Bowling: Sunil Narine 4/21
Result: KKR won by 4 wickets
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
The biggest match in this rivalry’s history until that point. Both teams were fighting for their IPL lives — the loser goes home.
RCB batted first and posted 138/7. It was a decent, if not dominant, total. Maxwell contributed 40.
When KKR came to bat, the drama unfolded. Sunil Narine — the man who so often hurts RCB — first destroyed their batting with 4 wickets for just 21 runs as a bowler. Then, when KKR batted, he came in and hit three consecutive sixes to help take KKR past the line. KKR won by 4 wickets, reaching 139/6 in 19.4 overs.
RCB were eliminated from IPL 2021. Sunil Narine was the undisputed Man of the Match and the hero of the night.
IPL 2022 — One Match, RCB Win
In 2022, RCB and KKR played each other only once.
Match 30
Date: March 30, 2022
Venue: Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai
KKR Innings: 128 all out in 18.5 overs
Key bowler for RCB: Wanindu Hasaranga 4/20
RCB Innings: 132/7 in 19.2 overs
Result: RCB won by 3 wickets
Man of the Match: Wanindu Hasaranga (RCB)
What Happened:
Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga was outstanding for RCB, taking 4 wickets for 20 runs. KKR were bowled out for just 128 in 18.5 overs. RCB then made heavy weather of the chase, struggling to 132/7, but got there in the second-to-last over. A tight 3-wicket win for RCB.
IPL 2023 — KKR’s Spinners Destroy RCB Twice
KKR swept RCB 2-0 in 2023. Their spin trio was simply too much for RCB’s batting.
Match 31
Date: April 6, 2023
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 204/7 in 20 overs
Key performer: Jason Roy, Rinku Singh
RCB Innings: 123 all out in 18.2 overs
Key KKR bowlers: Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Suyash Sharma — 9 wickets combined among the spin trio
Result: KKR won by 81 runs
Man of the Match: Shardul Thakur (KKR)
What Happened:
KKR posted 204/7, a strong total at Eden Gardens. Then their three spinners — Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, and Suyash Sharma — all bowled brilliantly together, sharing 9 wickets between them. RCB were bowled out for just 123 in 18.2 overs. KKR won by 81 runs. Shardul Thakur was Man of the Match for his all-round contribution.
Match 32
Date: April 26, 2023
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
KKR Innings: 200/5 in 20 overs
Key performer: Rinku Singh, Jason Roy
RCB Innings: 179/8 in 20 overs
Key RCB performer: Faf du Plessis
Key KKR bowler: Varun Chakravarthy
Result: KKR won by 21 runs
Man of the Match: Varun Chakravarthy (KKR)
What Happened:
KKR scored 200/5 in Bengaluru — a very good total on any ground. RCB chased hard with Faf du Plessis leading the way, but could only manage 179/8. Varun Chakravarthy once again was brilliant with the ball, picking up key wickets at the right times. KKR won by 21 runs, completing another season sweep.
IPL 2024 — KKR Win the Title and Sweep RCB in Both Matches
2024 was KKR’s greatest season. They won their third IPL title, sweeping through the tournament. They also produced two classic matches against RCB, including one of the most dramatic 1-run finishes in IPL history.
Match 33
Date: March 29, 2024
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB Innings: 183/6 in 20 overs
Key performers for RCB: Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis
KKR Innings: 184/3 in 17.5 overs
Key performer: Sunil Narine (Man of the Match)
Result: KKR won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Sunil Narine (KKR)
What Happened:
RCB posted 183/6 at their noisy home ground. Sunil Narine was once again Bengaluru’s nightmare. He scored quickly at the top of the order and KKR chased down 184 with 7 wickets in hand and 13 balls remaining. A dominant chase. Narine was Man of the Match for the countless time in this rivalry.
Match 34 — The 1-Run Thriller
Date: April 21, 2024
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 222/6 in 20 overs — KKR’s highest total ever against RCB
Top scorers: Phil Salt, Sunil Narine
RCB Innings: 221/8 in 20 overs — RCB’s highest total ever in this rivalry
Top scorers: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik 83 off 35 balls
Result: KKR won by 1 run
Run-out on the last ball of the match
Man of the Match: Dinesh Karthik (RCB) — awarded for his brilliant batting even in a losing cause
What Happened:
This is possibly the most dramatic match in the entire history of this rivalry. KKR posted 222/6 — their highest ever total against RCB. Salt and Narine gave a blistering start. In reply, RCB batted magnificently. Dinesh Karthik — who had returned to RCB — played one of the greatest innings of his career, scoring 83 off 35 balls. RCB needed 7 runs off the last ball.
A run-out on the final delivery ended it all. RCB finished at 221/8. KKR won by just 1 run. Eden Gardens exploded in disbelief and joy. It was the most gut-wrenching finish for RCB fans and one of the greatest matches the IPL has ever produced. Both teams combined to score 443 runs in a single T20 match.
IPL 2025 — RCB Win the War That Mattered
After years of pain, RCB finally won the IPL title in 2025. And fittingly, they opened the season by beating KKR.
Match 35 — IPL 2025 Season Opener (Match 1 of the Season)
Date: March 22, 2025
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
KKR Innings: 174/8 in 20 overs
Key performers for KKR: Ajinkya Rahane 54 off 33 balls, Sunil Narine 30
Key bowler for RCB: Krunal Pandya 3 wickets
RCB Innings: 177/3 in 16.2 overs
Key performers: Virat Kohli 59 not out off 36 balls, Phil Salt 56 off 28 balls
Result: RCB won by 7 wickets
Man of the Match: Phil Salt (RCB)
What Happened:
New season, new captains. Ajinkya Rahane was leading KKR for the first time. KKR posted 174/8, with Rahane making a good 54 off 33 balls and Narine contributing 30. However, Krunal Pandya was brilliant for RCB, taking 3 wickets and slowing KKR in the later overs. KKR could only score 67 runs in the last 10 overs.
Then Phil Salt opened for RCB and attacked from ball one, blasting 56 off 28 balls. Virat Kohli came in and was ice-cool, scoring 59 not out off 36 balls. Kohli became only the third player in IPL history to score 1,000 career runs against KKR. RCB chased 175 in just 16.2 overs, winning by 7 wickets. It was a powerful statement win to start the season that would end in their first-ever IPL title.
Match 36 — Rain Abandonment
Date: May 17, 2025
Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
Result: No Result — match abandoned due to rain
This was the second league stage meeting of 2025. Rain intervened and the match could not be completed. No result was possible. This is the one no-result in the head-to-head record.
SECTION 5: HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORDS SUMMARY TABLE
| Category | KKR | RCB |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wins | 21 | 15 |
| Total Matches (including NR) | 37 | 37 |
| No Result | 1 | 1 |
| Biggest Win (by runs) | 140 runs (April 2008) | 82 runs (October 2020) |
| Biggest Win (by wickets) | 9 wickets (Sept 2021) | 9 wickets (April 2011) |
| Highest Total | 222/6 (April 2024) | 221/8 (April 2024) |
| Lowest Total | 84/8 (Oct 2020) | 49 all out (April 2017) |
| All-Time Leading Scorer vs Rival | Gautam Gambhir — 647 runs | Virat Kohli — 1,021+ runs |
| Most Wickets vs Rival | Sunil Narine — 27 wickets | Yuzvendra Chahal — 19 wickets |
| Playoff Meetings | 1 win (Eliminator 2021) | 0 playoff wins |
| Seasons With 2-0 Sweeps | 2008, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2023, 2024 | 2009, 2011, 2015, 2020 |
FULL FRANCHISE COMPARISON
Team Name: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders
City: Bengaluru vs Kolkata
Home Ground: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium vs Eden Gardens
Colors: Red, Gold, Black vs Purple, Gold
IPL Titles: 1 (2025) vs 3 (2012, 2014, 2024)
Runners-Up: 3 times (2009, 2011, 2016) vs 0
Captain 2026: Rajat Patidar vs Ajinkya Rahane
Coach 2026: Andy Flower vs Abhishek Nayar
Owners: Aditya Birla Group consortium vs Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, Jay Mehta
Franchise Value: $1.78 Billion (record, 2026 sale) vs ~$1.5 Billion estimated
Motto: #PlayBold vs Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo
Most Famous Player: Virat Kohli vs Sunil Narine / Gautam Gambhir
SECTION 7: OWNERS COMPARED
RCB’s New Owners (2026):
In March 2026, RCB was sold for a record 1.78 billion US dollars — the most expensive cricket franchise sale in history. The consortium buying it includes the Aditya Birla Group (one of India’s biggest conglomerates), the Times of India Group (India’s largest media company), Bolt Ventures (owned by American David Blitzer who also owns NBA and NFL teams), and Blackstone (world’s largest private equity firm).
Aryaman Vikram Birla became the Chairman of RCB. He is the son of Kumar Mangalam Birla and was himself a professional cricketer who played first-class cricket for Madhya Pradesh. This makes him one of the most interesting franchise chairmen in sports — a billionaire who has actually played the game professionally.
The previous owner, United Spirits Limited (a subsidiary of alcohol company Diageo), originally bought the team in 2008 for just 111.6 million US dollars. The 2026 sale at 1.78 billion represents a 16-times increase in value in under 20 years.
KKR’s Owners:
KKR is owned by Knight Riders Sports Private Limited. Shah Rukh Khan’s company Red Chillies Entertainment holds a 55% stake. The remaining 45% is held by the Mehta Group, controlled by Juhi Chawla and her husband Jay Mehta.
Shah Rukh Khan is arguably the most recognizable celebrity owner in world sports. In 2025, his net worth was estimated at around 876 million US dollars. KKR was valued at around 13,000 to 15,000 crore Indian rupees in 2026. Shah Rukh had originally invested 165 crore rupees in 2008 — that investment has grown enormously.
The Mehta Group is a multinational conglomerate with businesses in cement, engineering, shipping, power, and real estate. Jay Mehta is reportedly exploring selling his 45% stake, and Shah Rukh is expected to buy it, which would give him close to 90% ownership of the franchise.
COACHES COMPARED
RCB’s Coach — Andy Flower:
Andy Flower is a former Zimbabwe captain and one of the most respected coaches in world cricket. He served as England’s head coach during their most successful period — including Ashes wins in 2009 and 2010-11. He is known for being calm, disciplined, and for building strong team culture. Under his coaching, RCB finally ended their 17-year wait and won their first IPL title in 2025. He continues in the role for the 2026 season.
KKR’s Coach — Abhishek Nayar:
Abhishek Nayar is a former Mumbai cricketer and IPL player. He later became a key assistant coach in the Indian national team setup, working closely with Gautam Gambhir. He replaced Chandrakant Pandit as KKR’s head coach before the 2026 season. He is modern, data-driven, and energetic. He is supported by assistant coach Shane Watson (former Australia cricketer) and mentor Dwayne Bravo (former West Indies all-rounder and ex-KKR player).
CAPTAINS COMPARED
RCB’s Captain — Rajat Patidar:
Rajat Patidar is a young, aggressive top-order batsman from Madhya Pradesh. He became RCB’s captain in 2024 when Faf du Plessis left the franchise. Despite being a new captain, he led RCB magnificently in 2025, guiding them to their first-ever IPL title. He plays with great energy and fearlessness. He is now one of the most celebrated figures in Bengaluru’s sporting history.
KKR’s Captain — Ajinkya Rahane:
Ajinkya Rahane is a veteran Indian cricketer who is most famous for his Test match brilliance, especially for leading India to a historic comeback series win in Australia in 2020-21. He scored 390 runs in IPL 2025 to become KKR’s top run-scorer that season. He is calm, experienced, and strategic. His challenge in 2026 is to bring more T20 aggression to his captaincy while drawing on his rich experience.
SQUADS COMPARED IN 2026
RCB Key Players in 2026:
Virat Kohli — India’s greatest batter, 1,000+ runs against KKR in this rivalry
Phil Salt — Explosive English opener
Rajat Patidar — Captain and aggressive top-order batter
Bhuvneshwar Kumar — Experienced India fast bowler
Josh Hazlewood — Australian pace bowler
Glenn Maxwell — Australian all-rounder
Krunal Pandya — Indian all-rounder
Liam Livingstone — English big-hitter
KKR Key Players in 2026:
Ajinkya Rahane — Captain and experienced top-order batter
Sunil Narine — All-time KKR legend, still dangerous at 37
Varun Chakravarthy — Mystery spinner, 17 wickets in 2025
Rinku Singh — India’s best death-over finisher
Cameron Green — Australian all-rounder, record signing at 25.20 crore rupees
Finn Allen — New Zealand explosive opener
Matheesha Pathirana — Sri Lankan tearaway fast bowler
Rovman Powell — West Indian big-hitter
Akash Deep — Indian fast bowler
BRAND AMBASSADORS AND SPONSORS COMPARED
RCB Brand Ambassadors and Sponsors:
Virat Kohli is RCB’s biggest commercial draw even as a player. His 265 million Instagram followers — the most of any cricketer and one of the most followed accounts in the world — give RCB unmatched digital reach. The new ownership group with the Times of India behind it means RCB now has the most powerful media partner any IPL team has ever had.
RCB’s kit is made by Puma. They have the RCB Bar and Cafe hospitality brand, RCB Unbox entertainment properties, and a massive social media presence. Their “#PlayBold” campaign is one of the most recognized brand slogans in Indian sport.
KKR Brand Ambassadors and Sponsors:
Shah Rukh Khan is KKR’s biggest brand ambassador — he is not paid to endorse them, he owns them, which is even more powerful. His presence at matches is pure marketing gold. Juhi Chawla adds more Bollywood starpower.
KKR’s 2026 title sponsor is Vida EV from Hero MotoCorp. Other major sponsors include Amul, Google Gemini, Thums Up, BKT Tyres, RR Kabel, Jio, Google Pay, and Kingfisher. The team’s KorboLorboJeetbo merchandise line is popular across Kolkata and among cricket fans internationally.
IPL 2026 — WHAT IS HAPPENING THIS SEASON?
RCB in 2026 — Defending Champions:
RCB came into the 2026 IPL season as the defending champions, having won their first-ever title in 2025. The feeling inside the franchise is completely different now. There is a trophy. There is belief. There is momentum.
Ownership changed hands in March 2026, just days before the season started. The Aditya Birla Group consortium completed the record 1.78 billion US dollar purchase. But the new owners have made it clear — there will be no disruption. The same captain (Rajat Patidar), the same coach (Andy Flower), and the same key players are continuing.
RCB opened the 2026 IPL season against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28. They won in stunning fashion — chasing down 202 with 4 balls to spare, breaking the record for the fastest 200-plus chase in IPL history. Virat Kohli scored 69 not out off just 38 balls. RCB are on fire.
KKR in 2026 — Rebuilding After a Difficult 2025:
After winning the title in 2024, KKR had a poor 2025 season, finishing 8th out of 10 teams. It was a big drop. Changes were made. Head coach Chandrakant Pandit left. Abhishek Nayar came in as the new head coach. Shane Watson joined as assistant coach. Dwayne Bravo became the team’s mentor.
At the auction, KKR signed Cameron Green for 25.20 crore rupees — a record for any overseas player in IPL history. They also signed Matheesha Pathirana (18 crore) and Finn Allen.
However, KKR lost Harshit Rana (their star young fast bowler) to a knee injury that has ruled him out for the entire 2026 season. The team also had to release Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman after the BCCI requested it following diplomatic tensions, and replaced him with Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani.
KKR opened their 2026 campaign against Mumbai Indians on March 29 at Wankhede Stadium. Finn Allen and Blessing Muzarabani made their IPL debuts.
The 2026 RCB vs KKR Match:
RCB and KKR are scheduled to face each other in Match 57 of IPL 2026 on May 13, 2026, at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. This is a neutral venue, which adds an extra twist.
Why is this match so hyped? RCB are defending champions. KKR are hungry to prove themselves after 2025. Both teams are loaded with talent. And the history between these two sides — 17 years of drama, records, heartbreaks, and miracles — guarantees that when they meet, something extraordinary will happen.
WHY SO MUCH HYPE IN 2026?
The hype around RCB vs KKR in 2026 is at an all-time high for all of these reasons combined:
- RCB are the defending IPL champions — every team wants to beat them.
- RCB has new billionaire owners — the Aditya Birla Group consortium deal at 1.78 billion US dollars made global headlines and added a new dimension to the franchise.
- KKR finished 8th in 2025 — they are hungry, motivated, and have big new signings.
- Cameron Green (KKR) vs Virat Kohli (RCB) — two global superstars on opposite sides.
- The rivalry is 18 years old — and every single match has added something to the story.
- Sunil Narine is still playing at 37 — and he still haunts RCB like no other bowler.
- Eden Gardens and Chinnaswamy are among the most atmospheric cricket venues in the world.
ALL-TIME RIVALRY RECORDS AND STATS
Top Run Scorers in RCB vs KKR Matches:
Virat Kohli (RCB) — 1,021+ runs in 32+ innings, 7 half-centuries, 1 century, strike rate 133.63
Gautam Gambhir (KKR) — 647 runs in 20 innings, 6 half-centuries, strike rate 134.51
Chris Gayle (RCB) — 606 runs
AB de Villiers (RCB) — 475 runs
Brendon McCullum (KKR) — 411 runs
Top Wicket-Takers in RCB vs KKR Matches:
Sunil Narine (KKR) — 27 wickets (most by any bowler in this rivalry)
Yuzvendra Chahal (RCB) — 19 wickets
R. Vinay Kumar (RCB) — 17 wickets
Andre Russell (KKR) — 17 wickets
Biggest Wins:
KKR’s biggest win over RCB: 140 runs (April 18, 2008 — the very first IPL match)
RCB’s biggest win over KKR: 82 runs (October 12, 2020)
Highest Totals:
Highest by KKR: 222/6 (April 21, 2024)
Highest by RCB: 221/8 (April 21, 2024 — same match, same night, one run difference)
Lowest Totals:
KKR’s lowest: 84/8 (October 21, 2020)
RCB’s lowest: 49 all out (April 23, 2017) — also the lowest total in all of IPL history
CONCLUSION — WHO HAS THE EDGE?
Looking purely at numbers, KKR leads this rivalry with 21 wins compared to RCB’s 15. They have swept RCB in a single season more times (eight sweeps vs four for RCB). They have three IPL titles compared to RCB’s one. Sunil Narine with 27 wickets against RCB is the rivalry’s dominant bowler.
But numbers only tell part of the story.
RCB won the IPL in 2025 — finally ending years of heartbreak. They enter 2026 as champions. They have new, powerful owners who are investing in the franchise in a way never seen before. They have Virat Kohli, the greatest run-scorer in IPL history and the man who has scored more than 1,000 runs in this specific rivalry alone.
KKR have the experience of three titles, the emotional power of Shah Rukh Khan, a global brand, and one of the best spin duos in cricket in Narine and Chakravarthy. After a poor 2025, they are motivated to prove they are still the best.
Every time RCB and KKR step onto the same field, something happens that gets written into cricket history. From McCullum’s 158 on the very first night of IPL in 2008, to RCB’s 49 all out in 2017, to the 1-run thriller in 2024 — this rivalry never disappoints.
When they meet on May 13, 2026, in Raipur, another chapter will be written. Whether it will be RCB defending their title honor or KKR making a statement on their road back, one thing is certain: it will be unmissable.
This is IPL’s greatest rivalry. And it is nowhere near over.
QUICK FACTS SUMMARY
Total Matches Played (2008–2025): 37
KKR Wins: 21
RCB Wins: 15
No Results: 1
First Match: April 18, 2008 (KKR won by 140 runs)
Most Runs in Rivalry: Virat Kohli (RCB) — 1,021+
Most Wickets in Rivalry: Sunil Narine (KKR) — 27
Biggest KKR Win: 140 runs (2008)
Biggest RCB Win: 82 runs (2020)
Lowest Team Score in Rivalry: RCB’s 49 all out (2017) — also IPL’s all-time record
Highest Match Total: 443 runs combined (2024 — 222 by KKR, 221 by RCB, KKR won by 1 run)
2026 RCB vs KKR Match: May 13, 2026, Raipur
RCB IPL Titles: 1 (2025)
KKR IPL Titles: 3 (2012, 2014, 2024)
RCB Current Value: $1.78 Billion (record franchise sale, March 2026)
KKR Current Value: ~$1.5 Billion estimated
RCB Owner: Aditya Birla Group consortium
KKR Owner: Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, Jay Mehta
Arjun Mehta is a dedicated cricket rules analyst with strong expertise in ODI, T20, and Test match regulations. He focuses on explaining powerplay rules, fielding restrictions, bowling limits, and modern ICC updates in simple language. Arjun’s content helps fans clearly understand match decisions and on-field situations without confusion.