Introduction – Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Timeline

The Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals timeline represents one of the most exciting and competitive rivalries in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since their very first meeting in 2008, CSK and RR have delivered thrilling encounters that include last-over finishes, record-breaking individual performances, tactical masterclasses, and unforgettable moments that fans still talk about today.

Chennai Super Kings, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, are known for their consistency, experienced core, and calm leadership, especially under the legendary MS Dhoni. Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions, are admired for their fearless approach, emphasis on young Indian talent, and ability to surprise stronger teams on big occasions.

As of the IPL 2025 season, the CSK vs RR rivalry remains as intense as ever. Every time these two teams meet, fans expect drama, passion, and high-quality cricket. This article presents a complete and detailed timeline of Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals, covering all matches from 2008 to 2025, along with head-to-head records, key performers, iconic moments, and interesting facts that define this iconic IPL rivalry.

Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals Timeline (2008–2025)

Below is a comprehensive timeline table of all CSK vs RR matches, including league matches, playoffs, and the historic IPL final.

Year	Date	Venue	Winner	Margin	Top Performer
2008	May 3	Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur	RR	8 wickets	Sohail Tanvir (6/14)
2008	May 23	M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai	RR	10 runs	Yusuf Pathan (56 runs)
2008	May 31	DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai	RR	3 wickets	Yusuf Pathan (3/22)
2009	Apr 29	Centurion Park, Centurion	CSK	38 runs	Matthew Hayden (65 runs)
2009	May 8	Kingsmead, Durban	CSK	7 wickets	Murali Vijay (127 runs)
2010	Mar 27	Ahmedabad	RR	17 runs	Graeme Smith (77 runs)
2010	Apr 2	DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai	CSK	23 runs	Matthew Hayden (68 runs)
2010	Apr 8	Chennai	CSK	18 runs	Suresh Raina (61 runs)
2011	May 3	Chennai	CSK	8 wickets	Murali Vijay (113 runs)
2011	May 8	Jaipur	CSK	63 runs	Suresh Raina (61 runs)
2012	Apr 20	Chennai	CSK	7 wickets	MS Dhoni (51*)
2012	May 9	Jaipur	CSK	4 wickets	Michael Hussey (88 runs)
2013	Apr 21	Chennai	CSK	5 wickets	Suresh Raina (51 runs)
2013	May 11	Jaipur	RR	5 wickets	James Faulkner (3/26)
2014	Apr 22	Dubai	CSK	7 runs	Suresh Raina (41 runs)
2014	May 12	Ranchi	CSK	5 wickets	Dwayne Bravo (3/22)
2015	Apr 18	Ahmedabad	RR	8 wickets	James Faulkner (3/16)
2015	May 9	Chennai	CSK	12 runs	Suresh Raina (75 runs)
2016	May 29	Chennai	CSK	5 wickets	Dwayne Bravo (3/22)
2017	May 14	Jaipur	RR	15 runs	Ben Stokes (3/15)
2018	Apr 20	Pune	CSK	64 runs	Shane Watson (106*)
2018	May 11	Jaipur	CSK	4 wickets	Shane Watson (106*)
2019	Mar 31	Chennai	CSK	8 runs	Shane Watson (44 runs)
2019	Apr 11	Jaipur	CSK	4 wickets	Shreyas Gopal (3/21)
2020	Sep 22	Sharjah	RR	16 runs	Sanju Samson (85 runs)
2020	Oct 22	Abu Dhabi	RR	7 wickets	Jofra Archer (3/19)
2021	Apr 19	Delhi	CSK	45 runs	Moeen Ali (48 runs)
2021	Oct 2	Abu Dhabi	RR	7 wickets	Evin Lewis (58 runs)
2022	May 20	Mumbai	RR	5 wickets	Jos Buttler (89 runs)
2023	Apr 12	Chennai	RR	3 runs	Yashasvi Jaiswal (50 runs)
2023	Apr 18	Jaipur	RR	32 runs	R. Ashwin (3/22)
2024	May 12	Chennai	CSK	5 wickets	Ruturaj Gaikwad (75 runs)
2025	Mar 30	Guwahati	RR	6 runs	Vaibhav Suryavanshi (50 runs)
2025	May 20	Delhi	RR	6 wickets	Akash Madhwal (3/18)

Early Years of the Rivalry (2008–2010)

IPL 2008 – The Birth of a Classic Rivalry

The rivalry began in spectacular fashion during the inaugural IPL season. Rajasthan Royals dominated CSK in league matches and then defeated them again in the 2008 IPL Final, becoming the first-ever IPL champions. Players like Shane Warne, Yusuf Pathan, and Sohail Tanvir were instrumental in RR’s early dominance.

2009 – CSK’s Comeback

In the 2009 season held in South Africa, CSK struck back strongly. Murali Vijay’s unforgettable century against RR remains one of the finest innings in CSK vs RR history.

2010 – High-Scoring Encounters

The 2010 season featured explosive batting displays, including CSK’s massive totals and aggressive performances from Matthew Hayden and Suresh Raina.

Dominance and Consistency (2011–2015)

CSK’s Golden Phase

Between 2011 and 2015, CSK established themselves as a powerhouse. Their dominance against RR during this phase was evident, with multiple convincing victories driven by strong batting and disciplined bowling.

RR’s Fighting Spirit

Despite CSK’s success, RR continued to challenge them with match-winning performances from Shane Watson, James Faulkner, and emerging Indian talents.

Transition Years and Comebacks (2016–2018)

The suspension of CSK in 2016 and 2017 temporarily paused the rivalry. When CSK returned in 2018, they made an emphatic statement by defeating RR convincingly, highlighted by Shane Watson’s stunning century.

Modern Era Battles (2019–2025)

Rise of New Stars

Recent seasons have seen young players like Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi play decisive roles in CSK vs RR matches.

Tactical and High-Intensity Games

Matches in the modern era are marked by aggressive batting, innovative bowling strategies, and close finishes, reflecting the evolution of T20 cricket.

Head-to-Head Statistics: CSK vs RR

Overall Record

• Total Matches Played: 31
• Chennai Super Kings Wins: 16
• Rajasthan Royals Wins: 15
• No Result/Ties: 0

This near-equal record highlights how closely contested the rivalry has been over the years.

IPL Finals and Playoff Record

2008 IPL Final

Rajasthan Royals defeated Chennai Super Kings by 3 wickets to lift the inaugural IPL trophy.

High-Pressure Matches

While CSK has been more consistent across league stages, RR has often delivered crucial wins in high-pressure games, including finals and decisive encounters.

Top Performers in CSK vs RR Matches

Most Runs

• Shane Watson: 711 runs

Most Wickets

• Ravindra Jadeja: 20 wickets

Both players have represented CSK and RR at different stages, adding an interesting dimension to the rivalry.

Key Matches and Iconic Moments

2008 Final

The match that started it all, establishing RR as champions and CSK as worthy rivals.

2018 Comeback Match

CSK’s emphatic return after suspension, led by Shane Watson’s unforgettable century.

2025 Season Highlights

RR’s dominance in both encounters, powered by young stars and disciplined bowling.

Fun Facts and Rivalry Highlights

• Longest Winning Streak: RR won 3 consecutive matches in 2008
• Biggest Victory Margin: CSK’s 64-run win in 2018
• Notable Player Battles: Shane Watson vs Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni vs Sanju Samson

Conclusion

The Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals timeline is a story of balance, brilliance, and evolution. From the historic 2008 IPL Final to thrilling modern-day encounters, this rivalry has consistently delivered top-quality cricket. With both teams continuing to evolve and introduce new talent, the future promises even more unforgettable moments.

As IPL seasons progress, the CSK vs RR rivalry remains a cornerstone of the tournament, ensuring fans are treated to excitement, drama, and legendary performances every time these two teams face off.