Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) share one of the most exciting rivalries in the history of the Indian Premier League. Both teams have produced many memorable matches over the years with star players delivering big performances in high-pressure situations.
CSK are widely regarded as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history with multiple titles and consistent playoff appearances. On the other hand, RCB have always been known for their strong batting line-ups and exciting players. Matches between these two teams often produce high scores, dramatic finishes, and standout individual performances.
In IPL 2026, the rivalry continues as Royal Challengers Bengaluru host Chennai Super Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. RCB enter the contest with confidence after starting their season with a victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad, while CSK are searching for momentum after losing their opening matches.
RCB vs CSK Head to Head in IPL
Over the years, Chennai Super Kings have maintained the upper hand in the overall head-to-head record against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
| Team | RCB | CSK |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 35 | 35 |
| Won | 13 | 21 |
| Lost | 21 | 13 |
| No Result | 1 | 1 |
Chennai Super Kings have won 21 of the 35 matches played between the two sides, while RCB have secured 13 victories. One match ended with no result.
Although CSK lead the overall rivalry, RCB have performed better in some of the recent meetings between the two teams.
RCB vs CSK Head to Head at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has witnessed several exciting matches between these two teams. The venue is known for its short boundaries and batting-friendly conditions, which often lead to high-scoring games.
| Matches Played | RCB Won | CSK Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 6 | 5 | 0 |
Royal Challengers Bengaluru hold a slight advantage over Chennai Super Kings at this venue with six wins, while CSK have won five matches.
RCB vs CSK Matches in IPL at Bengaluru
| Date | Winner | Margin | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Apr 2023 | CSK | 8 runs | Bengaluru |
| 22 Apr 2015 | CSK | 27 runs | Bengaluru |
| 25 Apr 2012 | No Result | Match Abandoned | Bengaluru |
| 22 May 2011 | RCB | 8 wickets | Bengaluru |
These matches highlight how closely contested the rivalry has been at the Bengaluru venue.
Pitch Report: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
The pitch at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is traditionally considered one of the best batting surfaces in the IPL.
- Short boundaries make it easier for batters to hit sixes.
- The ball generally comes nicely onto the bat.
- Fast bowlers can get some movement with the new ball.
- Dew in the evening often helps teams chasing targets.
Because of these conditions, captains usually prefer bowling first after winning the toss.
Current Team Form
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their IPL 2026 campaign with a strong performance. The team chased down a target successfully against Sunrisers Hyderabad and showed good balance in both batting and bowling.
Virat Kohli continues to be the key batter in the team’s line-up. Devdutt Padikkal also impressed with an explosive innings of 61 runs from 26 balls, while Rajat Patidar has been reliable in the middle order.
The bowling unit has also looked strong. Jacob Duffy impressed with a three-wicket performance, while experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and all-rounder Romario Shepherd also contributed with the ball.
Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings have had a challenging start to the IPL 2026 season. The team has lost its first two matches and will be eager to return to winning ways.
One of the main concerns for CSK has been their bowling attack. The team conceded 338 runs across two matches, which has put them under pressure early in the tournament.
Spinners Noor Ahmad and Rahul Chahar struggled in the previous match, conceding a combined 84 runs in eight overs.
The batting unit has shown some positive signs though. Ayush Mhatre played a strong innings of 73 runs, while Sarfaraz Khan scored a quick 32 runs from just 12 balls. Shivam Dube also contributed with an unbeaten 45 runs.
Key Player Records in RCB vs CSK Matches
Most Runs in RCB vs CSK Matches
Virat Kohli has been the most successful batter in matches between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings.
| Player | Runs |
|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 1146 |
Kohli has scored more than 1100 runs against CSK, making him the highest run scorer in this rivalry.
Important Contributors
Other players have also played important roles in matches between the two teams.
- Devdutt Padikkal has scored 284 runs against CSK with one half-century.
- Rajat Patidar has maintained a strike rate above 140 against the Chennai side.
- Krunal Pandya has contributed with both bat and ball in several matches against CSK.
FAQs
How many times have RCB defeated CSK in IPL history?
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have defeated Chennai Super Kings 13 times in IPL history.
How many matches have CSK won against RCB?
Chennai Super Kings have won 21 matches against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Who has scored the most runs in RCB vs CSK matches?
Virat Kohli is the leading run scorer in this rivalry with 1146 runs.
Where is the RCB vs CSK IPL 2026 match being played?
The match is being played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
What is special about the Chinnaswamy Stadium pitch?
The pitch is known for short boundaries and high-scoring matches, making it one of the most batting-friendly venues in the IPL.
