Introduction: Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is full of excitement, and when Rajasthan Royals (RR) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), fans are always in for a treat. These two teams have faced each other many times over the years, creating some unforgettable moments. This article gives you a friendly, simple timeline of their matches, records, and key details you should know as a cricket fan.
Table of Contents
Overview of Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Founded: 2008
- Captain (2025): Sanju Samson
- Home Ground: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
- IPL Titles: 1 (2008)
RR was the underdog in the first IPL season but shocked everyone by winning the championship. Since then, they have shown consistent passion and have built a loyal fan base. Known for promoting young talent, RR has been home to stars like Shane Watson, Sanju Samson, and Jos Buttler.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Founded: 2008
- Captain (2025): Shreyas Iyer
- Home Ground: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- IPL Titles: 2 (2012, 2014)
KKR is one of the most popular teams in the IPL, partly due to its co-owner, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. Over the years, they have seen ups and downs but always played with energy and passion. KKR has had players like Gautam Gambhir, Andre Russell, and Sunil Narine shine on the big stage.
Head-to-Head Record: RR vs KKR
The rivalry between RR and KKR has seen close games, big wins, and even Super Overs. Let’s take a look at their overall head-to-head record.
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Matches Played | 29 (as of 2024) |
| Rajasthan Royals Wins | 14 |
| Kolkata Knight Riders Wins | 14 |
| Tied Matches | 1 (RR won Super Over) |
| Highest Team Score (RR) | 217/5 (2024) |
| Highest Team Score (KKR) | 210/8 (2018) |
| Biggest Win (by runs) | KKR – 85 runs (2023) |
| Most Recent Match | RR won by 7 wickets (2024) |
Match Timeline: RR vs KKR
Here’s a detailed timeline of the matches between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders from 2008 to 2024.
| Year | Match | Winner | Margin | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 1st Match | RR | 45 runs | Jaipur |
| 2008 | 2nd Match | RR (Super Over) | Tied | Kolkata |
| 2009 | 1st Match | KKR | 5 wickets | Cape Town |
| 2009 | 2nd Match | RR | 6 wickets | Durban |
| 2010 | 1st Match | RR | 34 runs | Ahmedabad |
| 2010 | 2nd Match | KKR | 8 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2011 | 1st Match | RR | 9 wickets | Jaipur |
| 2011 | 2nd Match | KKR | 8 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2012 | 1st Match | RR | 22 runs | Jaipur |
| 2012 | 2nd Match | KKR | 5 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2013 | 1st Match | RR | 19 runs | Jaipur |
| 2013 | 2nd Match | RR | 4 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2014 | 1st Match | RR | 10 runs | Abu Dhabi |
| 2014 | 2nd Match | RR | 6 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2015 | 1st Match | Match Abandoned | – | Kolkata |
| 2015 | 2nd Match | RR | 9 runs | Mumbai |
| 2016 | Did Not Play | – | – | – |
| 2017 | Did Not Play | – | – | – |
| 2018 | 1st Match | KKR | 7 wickets | Jaipur |
| 2018 | 2nd Match | KKR | 6 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2018 | Eliminator | KKR | 25 runs | Kolkata |
| 2019 | 1st Match | KKR | 8 wickets | Jaipur |
| 2019 | 2nd Match | RR | 3 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2020 | 1st Match | KKR | 37 runs | Dubai |
| 2020 | 2nd Match | KKR | 60 runs | Dubai |
| 2021 | 1st Match | RR | 6 wickets | Mumbai |
| 2021 | 2nd Match | KKR | 86 runs | Sharjah |
| 2022 | 1st Match | RR | 7 runs | Mumbai |
| 2022 | 2nd Match | KKR | 7 wickets | Kolkata |
| 2023 | Only Match | KKR | 85 runs | Kolkata |
| 2024 | Only Match | RR | 7 wickets | Jaipur |
Key Players in the Rivalry
Top Performers for RR
- Sanju Samson – A consistent top-order batter and RR’s captain, known for his calm but aggressive style.
- Jos Buttler – When he’s on fire, Buttler can win games single-handedly.
- Yuzvendra Chahal – Leading wicket-taker for RR in many seasons.
Top Performers for KKR
- Andre Russell – A powerful all-rounder, known for his match-winning knocks and key wickets.
- Sunil Narine – Dangerous both with the ball and as a pinch-hitter.
- Shreyas Iyer – Steady and stylish in the middle order, helping build or finish innings.
Memorable Matches: RR vs KKR
2008 Super Over Drama
One of the first Super Overs in IPL history happened between RR and KKR in 2008. The match was tied, and RR won in the Super Over, thrilling fans and setting the tone for future encounters.
2014 Double Delight for RR
RR won both games in 2014. In one of them, they defended a small target with great bowling and fielding. This was one of the years where RR’s teamwork really stood out.
2018 Eliminator Match
KKR and RR met in the playoffs, with KKR winning the Eliminator by 25 runs. It was a high-pressure game, and KKR’s experience helped them go further that season.
2023 Dominance by KKR
In one of their strongest wins, KKR crushed RR by 85 runs, thanks to their big-hitting and strong bowling lineup. It was a one-sided affair that shocked RR fans.
What Makes This Rivalry Special?
This rivalry is not based on location like MI vs CSK or KKR vs RCB, but it’s still strong because:
- Unpredictable results
- Close matches and thrilling finishes
- High individual performances
- Exciting youth vs experienced players
Both teams have loyal fans and strong social media presence, which keeps the rivalry alive and fun.
Current Form and Future Outlook (2025)
Rajasthan Royals in 2025
RR continues to build around young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag while relying on experienced stars like Buttler and Samson. Their spin attack is one of the best in the league, with Chahal leading the charge.
Kolkata Knight Riders in 2025
KKR is focused on all-rounders. With Russell and Narine still around and young talents like Rinku Singh rising, KKR is aiming for another title. Their batting depth and bowling variations make them a team to watch.
Fan Reactions and Social Buzz
The RR vs KKR matches are always trending on social media, with fans sharing memes, reactions, and match predictions. The buzz starts days before the match and continues long after the last ball.
Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube are filled with:
- Match highlights
- Player interviews
- Behind-the-scenes videos
- Expert analysis and fan theories
Final Thoughts
The clash between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders is always exciting, full of surprises, and packed with cricket drama. Whether it’s a high-scoring thriller or a nail-biting finish, RR vs KKR always delivers.
