In 29 encounters so far, it’s been a neck-and-neck rivalry. RCB have a slight edge with 15 wins, while RR have claimed victory 14 times.
Here’s a detailed table highlighting the key statistics:
This table showcases how closely matched these two teams have been over the years, with star performers from both sides stepping up in crucial moments.
Let’s take a look at the win percentages for each team in this fierce rivalry:
While the rivalry remains tight, RCB hold a narrow edge with a 52% win rate.
Interestingly, both teams have identical records when setting a total, but RCB just edge RR when it comes to chasing.
RR have a better record at home, having won five out of the eight matches played in Jaipur.
Even in Bengaluru, RR have managed to win more games than the home team, highlighting their competitive edge in away conditions.
At neutral venues, RCB have been more dominant, winning nine out of 14 matches played.
In the most recent meetings, Rajasthan Royals have had the upper hand, winning three of the last five encounters.
2009 – Kumble’s Magic: Anil Kumble's legendary spell of 5/5 remains one of the greatest bowling performances in IPL history, skittling RR for just 58.
2018 – AB’s Brilliance: AB de Villiers turned the match on its head with a stunning 72* to guide RCB to victory in a must-win game.
2022 – Buttler’s Masterclass: Jos Buttler smashed a scintillating 106* in the playoffs to propel RR into the finals, dismantling RCB’s bowling attack.
2023 – Parnell’s Destruction: Wayne Parnell’s 3/10 ripped through the RR batting lineup as RCB registered a dominant 112-run win.
Virat Kohli (RCB) – 764 runs
The RCB icon and former captain, Virat Kohli, has been the most prolific run-scorer in this rivalry. With 764 runs, including a century and numerous match-defining fifties, Kohli has consistently delivered against RR.
Sanju Samson (RR) – 430 runs
RR skipper Sanju Samson has been a dependable performer with the bat. His explosive strokeplay and ability to anchor the innings have helped him notch up 430 runs in this fixture, making him RR's leading scorer against RCB.
Yuzvendra Chahal (RR) – 24 wickets
Interestingly, Chahal was once RCB’s top spinner, but since joining RR, he’s continued tormenting his former team. With 24 wickets, Chahal tops the bowling charts in RR vs RCB history, often striking in crucial middle overs.
Harshal Patel (RCB) – 17 wickets
Harshal Patel, known for his sharp cutters and death-over accuracy, has claimed 17 wickets in this clash. His ability to break partnerships and bowl under pressure has made him RCB’s top wicket-taker in this fixture.
Heading into the IPL 2025 season, there are some concerns over Rajasthan Royals and the squad they managed to build in the mega auction last year. Post the 2022 Mega Auction, Rajasthan Royals had managed to stitch together an extremely strong lineup which led them to the finals.
However, in 2025 RR will be entering after losing their key players in Jos Buttler, Trent Boult, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravichandran Ashwin has significantly weakened their squad. RR have brought back the likes of Jofra Archer and Maheesh Theekshana to bolster their bowling lineup but it remains to be seen how the team fares without their star players.
Captain Sanju Samson along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmeyer will have to grow into their roles as leaders of the team if Rajasthan Royals want to make a deep run in the playoffs of IPL 2025.
Rajasthan Royals IPL 2025 Complete Squad:
Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Sandeep Sharma, Jofra Archer (Rs. 12.50 crore), Maheesh Theekshana (Rs. 4.4 crore), Wanindu Hasaranga (Rs. 5.25 crore), Akash Madhwal (Rs. 1.20 crore), Kumar Kartikeya (Rs. 30 lakh), Nitish Rana (Rs. 4.20 crore), Tushar Deshpande (Rs. 6.50 crore), Shubham Dubey (Rs. 80 lakh), Yudhvir Singh (Rs. 35 lakh), Fazalhaq Farooqi (Rs. 2 crore), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Rs. 1.10 crore), Kwena Maphaka (Rs. 1.50 crore), Kunal Rathore (Rs. 30 lakh), Ashok Sharma (Rs. 30 lakh).
RCB enter into the 2025 IPL season with a completely new look, roping in player like Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt and Krunal Pandya. Under the new leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB are going in a different direction. However, despite the new direction, a similar question mark still remains over RCB and that is their lack of balanced bowling lineup.
There were talks that Virat Kohli could potentially return as captain after departure of Faf du Plessis but the RCB management who is adamant on doing things differently have put their faith in Rajat Patidar. Only time will tell whether the decision is the right one or not.
As IPL 2025 approaches, fans can expect more thrilling encounters and captivating cricket between two of the league's most popular franchises.
RCB IPL 2025 squad:
Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Liam Livingstone, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Nuwan Thushara, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethel, Devdutt Padikkal, Swastik Chhikara, Lungi Ngidi, Abhinandan Singh, Mohit Rathee.
The Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru rivalry has blossomed into one of the most competitive head-to-head contests in IPL history. While RCB hold a narrow lead overall, RR have shown they are more than capable of turning the tide on any given day. With superstar performances, intense finishes, and high-stakes drama, fans can expect another fiery chapter in this rivalry during IPL 2025. As both teams gear up with renewed ambition, this fixture promises to be one of the highlights of the season.
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