The clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is more than just a game—it’s a battle of pride, legacy, and unmatched passion. Over the years, the rivalry has given fans some of the most thrilling and unforgettable moments in IPL history. With legends like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli leading their sides, every encounter has been a high-voltage drama filled with last-over finishes, sensational performances, and crowd-roaring excitement. Whether it’s the sea of yellow or the bold army in red, when CSK and RCB meet, the entire cricketing world takes notice.
Let’s relive the top 5 RCB vs CSK matches that left a lasting imprint on IPL folklore.
5. IPL 2023 – CSK vs RCB, High-Scoring Run-Fest
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore
- Result: CSK won by 8 runs
In one of the highest-scoring matches between the two, CSK posted a mammoth 226/6, courtesy of Devon Conway and Shivam Dube. In reply, RCB put up a fiery chase led by Faf du Plessis (62) and Glenn Maxwell (76). Despite their heroics, CSK’s bowlers held their nerve in the final overs, sealing a narrow 8-run win. It was a classic that had fans on the edge of their seats till the last ball.
4. IPL 2020 – CSK vs RCB, Virat Kohli Masterclass
- Venue: Dubai International Stadium
- Result: RCB won by 37 runs
This match marked a Virat Kohli special, where he smashed an unbeaten *90(52)**, taking RCB to a strong total of 169. CSK’s chase never really took off. RCB bowlers, led by Chris Morris and Washington Sundar, suffocated the middle order, and CSK fell short by 37 runs. The game reminded fans of Kohli’s big-match temperament.
3. IPL 2025 – RCB vs CSK: Ayush Mhatre’s Near Century
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Result: RCB won by 12 runs
In a high-octane clash, RCB set a daunting target of 214. CSK’s chase was anchored by 17-year-old sensation Ayush Mhatre, who dazzled with a 94-run innings. However, RCB’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs, restricting CSK to 201 and securing a thrilling win
2. IPL 2019 – RCB vs CSK, One-Run Heart-Stopper at Chinnaswamy
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore
- Result: RCB won by 1 run
In a dramatic encounter, RCB set a target of just 162. CSK, in response, struggled until MS Dhoni’s vintage knock of 84(48)* brought them close. With 26 needed in the last over, Dhoni almost pulled off a miracle. But on the final ball, Parthiv Patel’s direct hit ran out Shardul Thakur, handing RCB a rare win over CSK by just 1 run. The silence after Dhoni’s dismissal spoke volumes.
1. IPL 2025 – RCB vs CSK: RCB Ends 17-Year Chepauk Jinx
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Result: RCB won by 50 runs
In a historic turn of events, RCB finally broke their 17-year winless streak at Chepauk. Batting first, RCB posted a formidable 196/7, thanks to a stellar 50 from captain Rajat Patidar and a quickfire 32 by Phil Salt. CSK’s chase faltered early, with Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar dismantling the top order. Despite a valiant 41 by Rachin Ravindra, CSK managed only 146/8, handing RCB a memorable victory.
RCB vs CSK has never been just another IPL fixture. It’s about passion, legacy, and unforgettable moments. From nail-biting finishes to one-man shows, these matches have added layers to the IPL’s rich history. Whether you cheer for the Yellow Army or chant “Ee Sala Cup Namde”, one thing is for sure — when RCB takes on CSK, expect fireworks.
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