Introduction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings Timeline
The conflict between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the IPL’s most historical rivalries. Over nearly a long time, this matchup has added electrifying finishes, dramatic run chases, and memorable character performances — shaping one of the most compelling narratives in Indian Premier League records.
As of 2025, CSK have maintained a clean universal benefit in head-to-head effects, but RCB’s recent victories — which includes a historical win at CSK’s home ground — have introduced new chapters to this storied competition.
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How the Rivalry Has Evolved
From the inaugural IPL season in 2008, CSK quickly installed dominance with a balanced squad and strategic management beneath MS Dhoni, even as RCB, led with the aid of big name batsmen like Virat Kohli, regularly depended on batting firepower. The early years saw each teams exchange wins, however through the years CSK built a significant gain — in particular at domestic in Chennai’s M.A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk).
However, in recent seasons, mainly IPL 2024 and IPL 2025, RCB have won momentum. Their win at Chepauk in 2025 marked an ancient step forward, ending a long home drought towards CSK.
Notable RCB vs CSK Matches (2008–2025)
Below is a chronological table of major RCB vs CSK matches, showing dates, results, and key context:
| Date | Match Result | Margin & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 27 Apr 2008 | CSK won | Early IPL clash, CSK initial dominance |
| 20 May 2008 | RCB won by 14 runs | Rare early RCB win at Chepauk |
| 13 May 2009 | RCB won by 2 wickets | RCB’s rising challenge |
| 22 May 2009 | RCB won by 6 wickets | Continued RCB improvement |
| 30 Mar 2010 | CSK won by 5 wickets | CSK regains control in 2010 |
| 23 Sep 2010 (IPL 2010 in SA) | CSK won by 52 runs | Neutral venue encounter |
| 15 Apr 2011 | CSK won by 21 runs | CSK strong start to 2011 |
| 21 May 2011 | RCB won by 8 wickets | Rare RCB victory in 2011 |
| 23 May 2011 | CSK won by 6 wickets | CSK response in 2011 |
| 11 Apr 2012 | CSK won by 5 wickets | Chennai continues dominance |
| 24 Apr 2012 | No Result | No result due to rain |
| 12 Apr 2013 | CSK won by 4 wickets | CSK strong in 2013 |
| 17 May 2013 | RCB won by 24 runs | Competitive Bangalore clash |
| 23 May 2014 | CSK won by 8 wickets | Chennai dominance |
| 17 May 2014 | RCB won by 5 wickets | Close RCB victory |
| 21 Apr 2015 | CSK won by 27 runs | CSK edge in Bengaluru |
| 03 May 2015 | CSK won by 24 runs | CSK consistency |
| 21 May 2015 | CSK won by 3 wickets | Third matchup in 2015 |
| 25 Apr 2018 | CSK won by 5 wickets | CSK good form |
| 05 May 2018 | CSK won by 6 wickets | CSK dominance |
| 23 Mar 2019 | CSK won by 7 wickets | Chennai strong |
| 21 Apr 2019 | RCB won by 1 run | One of the closest finishes ever |
| 10 Oct 2020 | RCB won by 37 runs | RCB victory in Dubai |
| 25 Oct 2020 | CSK won by 8 wickets | CSK wins in UAE |
| 12 Apr 2022 | CSK won by 23 runs | Chennai comeback |
| 04 May 2022 | RCB won by 13 runs | RCB response |
| 17 Apr 2023 | CSK won by 8 runs | Tight contest |
| 22 Mar 2024 | CSK won by 6 wickets | CSK early 2024 win |
| 18 May 2024 | RCB won by 27 runs | Statement RCB victory |
| 28 Mar 2025 | RCB won by 50 runs | First Chepauk win in 17 years |
| 03 May 2025 | RCB won by 2 runs | Close Bangalore thriller |
Head-to-Head Summary (2008–2025)
Here’s a snapshot of the rivalry’s overall record:
- Total matches played (IPL): ~35
- CSK wins: ~21
- RCB wins: ~13
- No Result: 1
Chennai has historically held the upper hand, winning nearly twice as many matches as RCB. But recent seasons have seen the gap shrink, especially with RCB’s breakthrough win at Chepauk in 2025.
Standout Moments in the Rivalry
Historic Chepauk Win – 28 March 2025
In a landmark moment, RCB defeated CSK by 50 runs at Chepauk, marking their first win at that venue since 2008. RCB scored 196/7, and then restricted CSK to 146/8, with Rajat Patidar playing a match-defining knock.
This result ended a 17-year home drought for RCB against CSK and is widely considered one of the most important in the rivalry’s history.
Classic Bangalore Edge – 18 May 2024
At their home ground in Bengaluru, RCB chased down CSK’s total and won by 27 runs, showcasing strong batting depth and strategic bowling to turn pressure into a commanding victory.
One-Run Thriller – 21 April 2019
One of the closest games in IPL history saw RCB edge CSK by just 1 run in Bengaluru, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the last ball.
Dubai Battles – IPL 2020
Played in neutral venues due to COVID-19, this season saw mixed results:
- RCB won one match by 37 runs.
- CSK responded with an 8-wicket win.
Rivalry Stats & Records
Here are some noteworthy rivalry records as of 2025:
- Most overall wins: CSK
- Only IPL Chepauk win by RCB (pre-2025): 20 May 2008
- Highest margin (recent): RCB by 50 runs in 2025
Why This Rivalry Matters
The RCB vs CSK rivalry is about more than numbers — it’s about contrasting team identities:
- CSK: Calm leadership, tactical prowess, and consistency.
- RCB: Explosive batting, passionate fan base, and dramatic highs and lows.
It’s a rivalry rooted in fan emotion, cricketing history, and unforgettable encounters.
Final Thoughts: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings Timeline
The RCB vs CSK timeline (2008–2025) showcases a contention built on momentum swings, iconic performances, and historical breakthroughs. CSK’s longstanding dominance made RCB’s recent fulfillment even more pleasurable, adding new fuel to one of the IPL’s greatest narratives.
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