The rivalry between RCB and KKR is one of the most exciting in IPL history. It all started in 2008 with the very first IPL match, and since then, their games have been full of big scores, close finishes, and plenty of drama.
Over the years, KKR has generally had the upper hand, winning more matches, but RCB has had its share of memorable victories too.
In this article, we will see their win-loss record, venue trends, top players, and recent matches, showing why this rivalry is always worth watching.
RCB vs KKR Head‑to‑Head Overview
Kolkata Knight Riders maintain a historical edge over Bengaluru, though RCB recently secured a dominant victory in the 2025 season.
Take a look at the short overview of their head-to-head record:
| Category | RCB | KKR |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 36 | 36 |
| Won | 15 | 20 |
| Lost | 20 | 15 |
| No Result | 1 | 1 |
| Highest Score | 221 | 222 |
| Lowest Score | 49 | 84 |
(Note: Match count excludes one abandoned game on May 17, 2025)
Overall Win Record and Trends Between RCB and KKR
In 36 matches between KKR and RCB, KKR has won 20 times while RCB has won 15. This shows that KKR has generally been the stronger team in the rivalry.
KKR started strong in the early years and even had a four-match winning streak during 2023 and 2024. Their consistent performances made many of their games very competitive.
However, in the 2025 season opener at Eden Gardens, RCB won by seven wickets. Matches between these teams have often been exciting with close finishes and big victories, keeping fans interested every time they play.
Venue Record Between RCB and KKR – M. Chinnaswamy & Eden Gardens
RCB and KKR have faced off at their home grounds multiple times. KKR has often dominated both M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and Eden Gardens, though RCB has had some key victories, including in recent seasons.
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium: RCB vs KKR
RCB has played 12 matches against KKR at their home ground in Bengaluru. KKR has won 8 times, while RCB has won 4. KKR often performs better here, even in RCB’s home conditions.
Matches at this stadium are usually exciting, with high-scoring games. KKR has handled pressure well, making it one of the few places where RCB struggles to win consistently.
| Matches Played | RCB Wins | KKR Wins | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 4 | 8 | KKR dominates even at the RCB home ground |
Eden Gardens: RCB vs KKR
At Eden Gardens in Kolkata, 13 matches have been played between RCB and KKR. KKR has won 8 times, while RCB has won 5, including a strong 7-wicket win in the 2025 season opener.
Eden Gardens has favored KKR historically, but RCB has also pulled off key wins. Matches here are often high scoring and close, keeping the rivalry exciting for fans every season.
| Matches Played | RCB Wins | KKR Wins | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | 5 | 8 | RCB won in the 2025 season opener; KKR leads overall |
Highest and Lowest Totals: RCB vs KKR
Matches between RCB and KKR have seen both huge scores and dramatic collapses. KKR’s highest totals include 222/3 in 2008 and 222/6 in 2024, while RCB’s best against KKR is 221 in 2024.
On the lower side, RCB’s 49 all-out at Eden Gardens in 2017 remains one of the lowest IPL scores ever. KKR also struggled, being bowled out for 84 in 2020.
| Category | Team | Score | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest Team Total | KKR | 222/6 | 2024 |
| Highest Chase / Total | RCB | 221 | 2024 |
| Lowest Team Total | RCB | 49 | 2017 |
| Other Notable Low | KKR | 84/8 | 2020 |
Most Runs in RCB vs KKR Matches
In the RCB vs KKR rivalry, Virat Kohli leads all run-scorers with 1021 runs in 36 matches, including 1 century and 7 fifties, averaging 39.26 with a strike rate of 132.94. His consistency has made him the most reliable batter in this head-to-head.
Next on the list is Chris Gayle, who scored 631 runs in 16 matches, including a century and 3 fifties, striking at 151.31. For KKR, Gautam Gambhir has been the top contributor with 530 runs at an average of 37.85.
Other key performers include AB de Villiers (475 runs) and Andre Russell (396 runs), who have provided crucial contributions in several encounters. These players have defined many moments in this long-standing IPL rivalry.
Top Wicket‑Takers in RCB vs KKR Games
In the RCB vs KKR head‑to‑head matchups, Sunil Narine (KKR) stands out as the leading wicket‑taker, claiming 26 wickets with his spin and variations. Behind him, Yuzvendra Chahal (RCB) has been the top bowler for Bengaluru, taking 19 wickets over multiple seasons.
Close behind are R. Vinay Kumar, who picked up 17 wickets, and Andre Russell, also with 17 scalps in these matches.
These bowlers have played key roles in shaping close contests and pressure moments between the two sides, often turning the game with important breakthroughs.
Recent Form and Last Five Meetings
In recent seasons, KKR showed strong form against RCB, winning four of the last five completed matches between 2023 and 2024. Their victories included tight finishes and comfortable wins at both Eden Gardens and M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Here is the record of their last five meetings:
| Date | Venue | Winner | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 22, 2025 | Eden Gardens | RCB | 7 Wickets |
| April 21, 2024 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 1 Run |
| March 29, 2024 | M. Chinnaswamy | KKR | 7 Wickets |
| April 26, 2023 | M. Chinnaswamy | KKR | 21 Runs |
| April 6, 2023 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 81 Runs |
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Conclusion: KK Leads In the Head-To- Head Record Between RCB vs KKR
Battles between RCB and KKR are known for delivering some of the most entertaining IPL cricket. Their matches mix history with high‑intensity cricket that keeps fans on edge.
KKR leads in overall wins, but many games have been close or high‑scoring. Players like Virat Kohli and KKR’s top performers have shaped key moments and memorable finishes.
With records still open and momentum shifting quickly, every new match adds fresh stories. This rivalry remains a must-watch IPL fixture, promising more thrilling encounters in the seasons ahead.
