royal challengers bengaluru vs chennai super kings timeline
Searching for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline means diving into one of the most intense, emotional, and historic rivalries in Indian Premier League history. Popularly known as the Southern Derby, the clashes between RCB and CSK go far beyond points tables. They represent regional pride, contrasting cricketing philosophies, legendary players, heartbreaks, comebacks, and moments that have become permanent parts of IPL folklore.
From the very first meeting in IPL 2008 to the unforgettable IPL 2025 double victory by RCB, this rivalry has evolved dramatically. Chennai Super Kings have long been known for their consistency, calm leadership, and fortress-like home record at Chepauk, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru have embodied flair, star power, and an ever-hopeful fanbase that lives every match emotionally.
As of January 2026, CSK still lead the overall head-to-head battle, but the narrative has shifted in recent years. RCB’s breakthrough wins, especially the historic Chepauk victory in 2025 after 17 long years, have redefined the balance of power and injected new life into the rivalry.
Table of Contents
The Rise of the Southern Derby in IPL History
When the IPL was launched in 2008, few could have predicted that RCB vs CSK would become one of the league’s most celebrated rivalries. The reason lies not just in geography, but in identity.
Chennai Super Kings, led by MS Dhoni, quickly became a symbol of stability, experience, and tactical brilliance. They built a core around Indian players and trusted match-winners, making them one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, on the other hand, became the league’s most glamorous and emotionally followed team. With superstars like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and AB de Villiers over the years, RCB matches were always box-office events, regardless of results.
Whenever these two teams met, the contest felt personal—yellow vs red, calm vs aggression, experience vs flair. That contrast is what shaped the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline into something special.
Overall Head-to-Head Stats (As of January 2026)
Before diving into the match-by-match timeline, here is a clear statistical overview of the rivalry so far.
| Category | CSK | RCB | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Matches | 35 | – | 1 |
| Wins | 21 | 13 | 1 |
| First Match | IPL 2008, Bengaluru | – | – |
| Largest Win Margin | 68 runs (2021) | 50 runs (2025) | – |
| Smallest Win Margin | 1 run (2019) | 2 runs (2025) | – |
| Most Runs (Player) | Virat Kohli – 1098+ | – | – |
| Most Wickets (Player) | Ravindra Jadeja – 18+ | – | – |
Venue-Wise Breakdown
- MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai (Chepauk)
CSK dominated for years with 11 wins. RCB finally broke the 17-year jinx in March 2025. - M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB hold a slight edge with 6 wins, while CSK have won 5 matches here. - Neutral Venues
CSK: 5 wins
RCB: 2 wins
Batting First vs Chasing
- Batting first: 18 wins (CSK 10, RCB 8)
- Chasing: 16 wins (CSK 11, RCB 5)
These numbers reflect how close and competitive the Southern Derby has been, with many matches decided in the final overs.
Full Timeline: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings Match History
Below is the complete Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline in table format, highlighting key moments, margins, and performances that shaped the rivalry.
| Season | Match Date | Venue | Winner | Margin | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | May 18 | Bengaluru | CSK | 13 runs | First ever clash; CSK spoil RCB’s home debut |
| 2009 | May 10 | Chennai | CSK | 24 runs | Raina masterclass; Chepauk dominance begins |
| 2010 | Apr 18 | Bengaluru | CSK | 7 wickets | Dhoni chase; CSK march to title |
| 2011 | May 5 | Chennai | CSK | 16 runs | Morkel brilliance; CSK control game |
| 2012 | Apr 22 | Bengaluru | RCB | 5 wickets | Rare home win; Kohli leads chase |
| 2013 | May 12 | Chennai | CSK | 9 runs | Dhoni fifty; tight finish |
| 2014 | May 4 | Bengaluru | CSK | 1 run | Nail-biter; one of closest games ever |
| 2015 | Apr 26 | Chennai | CSK | 12 runs | RCB collapse; Dhoni anchors |
| 2016 | May 1 | Bengaluru | CSK | 28 runs | Jadeja spell crushes RCB |
| 2017 | Apr 14 | Chennai | RCB | 6 wickets | AB de Villiers 72* |
| 2018 | May 6 | Bengaluru | CSK | 15 runs | CSK comeback season dominance |
| 2019 | Apr 20 | Bengaluru | RCB | 1 run | Legendary thriller; Dhoni run-out drama |
| 2020 | Sep 25 | Dubai | CSK | 8 wickets | Neutral venue; Faf brilliance |
| 2021 | May 3 | Bengaluru | CSK | 68 runs | Biggest win margin in rivalry |
| 2022 | Apr 30 | Chennai | CSK | 7 wickets | Moeen Ali shines |
| 2023 | May 5 | Bengaluru | RCB | 12 runs | Kohli 82; RCB defend 192 |
| 2024 | May 7 | Bengaluru | RCB | 27 runs | Playoff eliminator; CSK knocked out |
| 2025 | Mar 28 | Chennai | RCB | 50 runs | Chepauk jinx broken after 17 years |
| 2025 | May 3 | Bengaluru | RCB | 2 runs | Historic double; Shepherd heroics |
This timeline reflects how the rivalry has moved from CSK’s near-total control to a far more balanced and unpredictable contest.
Era-Wise Breakdown of the Rivalry
2008–2011: CSK Establish Early Control
The first few seasons firmly belonged to Chennai Super Kings. Under MS Dhoni’s leadership, CSK won most of the early encounters, including league games and crucial knockout matches. RCB, despite having big names, struggled with consistency.
The 2011 IPL Final, although not included in the regular timeline table, remains a defining chapter where CSK outplayed RCB to lift the trophy, deepening RCB’s heartbreak and strengthening CSK’s dominance.
2012–2017: Star Power vs Experience
This phase saw RCB become more competitive, driven by Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and later Chris Gayle. While RCB managed a few wins, CSK continued to dominate at Chepauk and often found ways to win tight games.
The contrast between Chinnaswamy’s high-scoring thrillers and Chepauk’s tactical battles became a recurring theme in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline.
2018–2021: CSK’s Comeback and Ruthless Consistency
After returning from suspension in 2018, CSK looked stronger than ever. They beat RCB consistently, including the 2021 match where CSK won by 68 runs, the biggest margin in the rivalry.
During this period, CSK’s ability to adapt and RCB’s bowling struggles widened the gap again.
2022–2025: The Shift in Momentum
This era marked a turning point. RCB built a more balanced squad and started challenging CSK head-on.
The 2019 one-run thriller, the 2024 playoff eliminator, and especially the IPL 2025 double victory completely changed the narrative of the Southern Derby.
IPL 2025: The Defining Year in RCB vs CSK Timeline
March 28, 2025 – Chepauk, Chennai
RCB: 196/7
CSK: 146/8
Result: RCB won by 50 runs
Player of the Match: Rajat Patidar
This match shattered history. RCB defeated CSK at Chepauk for the first time since 2008, ending a 17-year losing streak. It was not just a win—it was an emotional release for RCB fans and a symbolic shift in the rivalry.
May 3, 2025 – M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
RCB: 213/5
CSK: 211/5
Result: RCB won by 2 runs
Player of the Match: Romario Shepherd
One of the greatest finishes in IPL history. Romario Shepherd’s explosive 53* off 14 balls and Yash Dayal’s nerve-holding final over sealed RCB’s first league double over CSK in 18 years.
Top Performers in RCB vs CSK History
Batting Legends
- Virat Kohli – 1098+ runs; the most consistent performer in the rivalry
- MS Dhoni – Countless finishing acts under pressure
- AB de Villiers – Match-winning knocks, especially in Bengaluru
- Suresh Raina – CSK’s backbone against RCB
Bowling Match-Winners
- Ravindra Jadeja – 18+ wickets; economical and deadly
- Yash Dayal – 2025 heroics under pressure
- Albie Morkel – Early-era match-turning spells
Why the Southern Derby Is So Special
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline is not just about wins and losses. It is about:
- Regional pride between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
- Iconic leaders like Dhoni and Kohli
- Extreme fan emotions
- Close finishes and record-breaking performances
- Matches that often decide playoff fates
Few IPL rivalries combine history, emotion, and quality cricket at this level.
Interesting Facts About RCB vs CSK Rivalry
- RCB broke the Chepauk jinx in 2025 after 17 years
- The closest match ended in a 1-run win in 2019
- CSK’s biggest win margin is 68 runs
- RCB’s highest total came in 2025 (213/5)
- 2024 saw RCB knock CSK out of playoffs
- Virat Kohli has scored the most runs in the rivalry
FAQs: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings Timeline
Who leads the head-to-head as of 2026?
CSK lead with 21 wins; RCB have 13.
When did RCB first win at Chepauk?
March 28, 2025.
What is the closest match in this rivalry?
RCB’s 1-run win in 2019.
Who scored the most runs in RCB vs CSK matches?
Virat Kohli.
Why is it called the Southern Derby?
Because it represents the biggest IPL rivalry between South Indian teams.
Conclusion
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings timeline is a story of dominance, patience, heartbreak, and resurgence. CSK ruled the early years with consistency and calm leadership, while RCB’s journey has been about belief, evolution, and finally breaking long-standing barriers.
The events of IPL 2025 proved that no fortress is permanent and no rivalry is static. With new stars rising and legends still influencing games, the Southern Derby remains one of the most anticipated clashes in world cricket.
As IPL 2026 approaches, fans know one thing for sure—when RCB and CSK meet, history is always waiting to be written again.
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