The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have built one of the most watchable rivalries in IPL history, fueled by passionate fan bases, high-profile stars, and several nail-biting encounters over the years. While their league-stage matchups have often stolen headlines—with explosive finishes, individual brilliance, and off-field drama—the two sides have surprisingly crossed paths in the playoffs only once to date.

Yet, the magnitude of this rivalry goes beyond just numbers. From fiery showdowns involving players like Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir to iconic chases led by Andre Russell and stunning spells from Sunil Narine, every clash carries a storyline of its own.

How Many Times Have KKR and RCB Faced Off in IPL Playoffs?

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have faced each other only once in the IPL playoffs. That came during IPL 2021, where KKR, under Eoin Morgan, chased down a target of 139 with ease to knock RCB out of the tournament. It was a low-scoring affair that ended RCB’s campaign and also marked Virat Kohli’s last game as captain of the franchise.

KKR have reached the playoffs eight times, converting their runs into four finals and three IPL titles—in 2012, 2014, and 2024. RCB have made the playoffs nine times, including finals in 2009, 2011, and 2016, but a title still eludes them.

As of IPL 2025, RCB are virtually through to the playoffs yet again, having secured 16 points from 11 matches, raising hopes for a potential high-stakes rematch with KKR in the knockout stages.

Complete List of KKR vs RCB IPL Playoff Matches

1. 2021 – Eliminator

• Date: October 11, 2021
• Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
• Stage: Eliminator
• In their only IPL playoff clash to date, Kolkata Knight Riders faced Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator of IPL 2021. Batting first, RCB managed just 138/7, with Virat Kohli top-scoring with 39 in his final game as captain. KKR’s star of the night was Sunil Narine, who delivered a game-changing all-round performance, taking 4 wickets for 21 runs and later scoring a quick 26 off 15 balls.

KKR chased down the target with 2 balls to spare, thanks to Narine’s momentum shift and a steady finish by the middle order.

Impact: RCB were eliminated from the tournament, while KKR advanced to Qualifier 2, continuing their run to the final. The match also marked the end of an era for RCB, as Kohli stepped down from captaincy after the loss.

Who Has the Edge in Playoffs – KKR or RCB?

When it comes to playoff encounters, KKR clearly holds the edge, having won the only playoff match between the two sides back in 2021. With a 100% win record against RCB in knockout games, KKR has proven it can handle pressure better when it matters most.

Despite qualifying for the playoffs fewer times (8 vs. RCB’s 9), KKR have been far more consistent under pressure. They’ve gone on to win three IPL titles from four final appearances, showing their ability to deliver in crunch situations. In contrast, RCB has faltered at the final hurdle every time, finishing runners-up thrice without clinching the trophy.

This pattern of RCB’s playoff struggles gives KKR a mental edge, fueling their confidence whenever the two sides meet in high-stakes games. RCB’s inability to close out big matches only galvanises KKR further when the pressure is on.

Iconic Player Performances in KKR vs RCB Playoffs

1. Sunil Narine – IPL 2021 Eliminator, Sharjah

Sunil Narine delivered one of the most memorable all-round performances in IPL playoff history during the 2021 Eliminator against RCB. With the ball, he ripped through RCB’s batting order, claiming 4 crucial wickets—including Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Srikar Bharat, and Glenn Maxwell—finishing with figures of 4/21.

But Narine wasn’t done. With KKR at a tense 79/3 in 10 overs, the pressure was building. Stepping up, he launched a counterattack, particularly targeting Dan Christian, smashing 22 runs in a single over and swinging the momentum back in KKR’s favour.

This all-round brilliance not only knocked RCB out but also sealed Narine’s legacy as a true match-winner in high-pressure knockout games.

What Makes the KKR vs RCB Playoff Rivalry So Intense?

Though KKR and RCB have only met once in the IPL playoffs, the rivalry is steeped in passion, star power, and high-stakes drama. Both teams boast massive fan bases—the cult of Virat Kohli drives RCB, and KKR are backed by Kolkata’s cricket frenzy and Shah Rukh Khan’s star presence.

Social media often ignites during their matchups, creating a storm of memes, predictions, and banter. The 2013 spat between Gautam Gambhir and Kohli remains one of the most iconic flashpoints in IPL history, symbolising the fierce competitive edge this fixture brings.

Even in league stages, there have been unforgettable finishes, like Andre Russell’s insane 48 off 13 balls during a chase of 206 in 2019. Every meeting feels personal, charged, and unpredictable. That kind of energy ensures that whenever KKR and RCB meet in the playoffs, it’s more than just a match—it’s an IPL spectacle.

What to Expect from KKR vs RCB in IPL 2025 Playoffs?

As the IPL 2025 playoff race intensifies, KKR and RCB are set to clash at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, though rain is likely to play a part in what could become a truncated contest. While KKR are virtually eliminated, their remaining two matches can still shake up the table. A win here could deny RCB a top-two finish, affecting their Qualifier path.

RCB come in red-hot, riding a four-match winning streak. However, they’re not at full strength, with Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the season and captain Rajat Patidar’s availability still uncertain. Earlier this season, RCB finally broke their losing streak to KKR with a win in the opening match, their first since 2022.

Prediction: With KKR lacking momentum and already on the brink, expect RCB to dominate and further cement their playoff position.

“RCB know what’s at stake. Expect them to come hard,” says Read.

FAQs – KKR vs RCB Head to Head

Q1. How many times have KKR and RCB met in the playoffs?

Ans: They have faced each other once in the IPL playoffs, during the 2021 Eliminator.

Q2. Who won the last KKR vs RCB playoff match?

Ans: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won the 2021 Eliminator, knocking RCB out of the tournament.

Q3. Who has the better head-to-head record in IPL overall?

Ans: As of 2025, KKR leads the head-to-head with 20 wins from 35 matches, while RCB has won 15.