Best of CSK vs RCB matches in IPL history

The rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has been one of the most iconic in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. Featuring the poster boys of Indian cricket – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli – this clash has divided fans and captivated audiences worldwide. Since the league’s inception, CSK and RCB have engaged in numerous thrilling encounters, including nail-biting finals and knockout games. CSK holds the upper hand in the head-to-head record, with 21 wins out of the 33 matches played. However, RCB has also managed to secure crucial victories at key moments.

Here’s a look at three of the most memorable CSK vs. RCB clashes in IPL 2025: 

1. Yash Dayal holds his nerve- IPL 2024  

In a virtual eliminator during the 2024 IPL season, CSK and RCB faced off with both teams level on points. The winner would advance to the knockouts. RCB batted first, scoring a commanding 218 runs. Virat Kohli contributed a solid 47, while Faf du Plessis notched up a fifty. Rajat Patidar's explosive 41 off 23 balls further bolstered the total.

Chasing 219, CSK fought valiantly, with Ravindra Jadeja scoring a crucial fifty. The match came down to the wire, with CSK needing 17 runs off the final over. MS Dhoni, facing Yash Dayal, reignited memories of his finishing prowess by smashing the first ball for a massive six. However, Dayal kept his composure. After Dhoni's dismissal, the remaining batters couldn’t capitalize, and RCB secured a memorable win, eliminating CSK from the tournament.

2. MS Dhoni mauls down RCB- IPL 2018 

In the 2018 IPL, MS Dhoni turned back the clock with a vintage performance at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Chasing a daunting target of 206, CSK found themselves in trouble at 74/4, with key batters like Suresh Raina, Sam Billings, and Ravindra Jadeja dismissed.

Dhoni, however, remained unfazed. He unleashed a brutal assault on Mohammed Siraj and Corey Anderson, dispatching seven colossal sixes in a blistering knock of 70 off just 34 balls. Ably supported by Ambati Rayudu, Dhoni steered CSK to a dramatic victory with two balls to spare, reminding everyone of his match-finishing brilliance.

3. Back-to-Back titles for CSK- IPL 2011 

The 2011 IPL final saw CSK and RCB clash for the ultimate prize. Batting first, CSK posted an imposing 205, courtesy of a magnificent opening stand. Murali Vijay played a scintillating knock, narrowly missing a century with 95 off 52 balls, while Michael Hussey’s composed 63 provided stability.

RCB's chase faltered from the outset. Ravi Ashwin struck early, dismissing the dangerous Chris Gayle for a duck and Mayank Agarwal soon after. Despite contributions from Saurabh Tiwary (42) and Virat Kohli (35), RCB never recovered. CSK’s disciplined bowling attack ensured a comprehensive 58-run victory, securing back-to-back IPL titles and cementing their legacy as one of the league’s greatest teams.

These encounters are a testament to the fierce competition and historic moments that the CSK-RCB rivalry has produced, making it one of the most anticipated fixtures in the IPL season.