The Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline represents one of the most compelling rivalries in the history of the Indian Premier League. Since the inaugural season in 2008, matches between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have consistently delivered high drama, explosive batting, intense bowling duels, and unforgettable finishes. This rivalry is not just about wins and losses; it reflects contrasting cricketing philosophies, superstar battles, and some of the most iconic performances ever seen in the IPL.

Mumbai Indians, the most successful franchise in IPL history with five championships, have built a reputation for consistency, tactical depth, and clutch performances under pressure. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, despite not yet lifting the trophy, have remained one of the most followed and entertaining teams in the league due to their star-studded batting lineups and fearless approach. Over the years, the MI vs RCB rivalry has grown into a marquee fixture every season, often shaping playoff races and title momentum.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find the complete history of the Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline, detailed season-by-season analysis, full head-to-head statistics, record-breaking performances, highest and lowest totals, and frequently asked questions.

Overview of the Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Rivalry

From the very beginning of the IPL in 2008, MI and RCB have shared a competitive relationship. Both franchises were among the original eight teams and carried massive expectations due to their financial backing and star players. Early clashes were competitive but inconsistent, as both teams were still discovering their ideal combinations and leadership structures.

Over time, the rivalry gained intensity as leadership figures emerged. For Mumbai Indians, the appointment of Rohit Sharma as captain in 2013 marked the start of a golden era. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the rise of Virat Kohli as the face of the franchise symbolized passion and aggressive competitiveness. Add to that the brilliance of AB de Villiers, the precision bowling of Jasprit Bumrah, and the finishing power of Kieron Pollard, and the rivalry evolved into a battle of icons.

History of Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Timeline

Below is a detailed season-by-season breakdown of how this rivalry unfolded across different IPL editions.

2008 – The Beginning of a Competitive Era

The first encounter between MI and RCB took place during the inaugural IPL season in 2008. Mumbai Indians secured an early victory at home, showcasing balanced bowling and confident chasing ability. Later in the season, RCB responded strongly at Bengaluru. The rivalry started evenly, setting the stage for future competitive battles.

2009 – RCB’s Tactical Growth

The 2009 season, held in South Africa, saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru improve significantly as a unit. They reached the final that year, demonstrating disciplined bowling and improved middle-order stability. Their encounters with Mumbai Indians were tighter, with RCB displaying greater confidence and structure.

2010 – Emergence of High-Scoring Encounters

By 2010, both teams had developed stronger cores. Mumbai Indians dominated the league stage and reached the final. Their clash with RCB included explosive batting displays and commanding bowling spells. This season marked the beginning of consistent high-scoring MI vs RCB matches.

2011 – Playoff-Level Intensity

Both franchises qualified for the playoffs in 2011. Mumbai Indians secured a commanding win in one of their encounters, emphasizing their depth in both batting and bowling departments. The rivalry began to feel like a playoff-level contest even during league matches.

2012 – Kohli’s Authority with the Bat

Royal Challengers Bengaluru relied heavily on Virat Kohli’s growing consistency. One of the standout matches that year featured a dominant chase by RCB, with Kohli anchoring the innings. The MI bowling attack was challenged repeatedly by RCB’s top order.

2013 – The Rohit Sharma Era and MI Dominance

The 2013 season was historic for Mumbai Indians. Rohit Sharma took over captaincy mid-season and led MI to their first IPL title. Their victories over RCB that year highlighted tactical sharpness and mental resilience. This season shifted the rivalry balance significantly in MI’s favor.

2014 – Evenly Matched Battles

The 2014 season saw both teams share victories. Each match was closely contested, reflecting how evenly matched the squads had become. Bowling strategies and middle-order performances often determined outcomes.

2015 – The AB de Villiers Classic

One of the greatest matches in the Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline occurred in 2015. AB de Villiers scored a breathtaking 133* at Wankhede Stadium, dismantling MI’s bowling attack with fearless stroke play. This innings remains one of the finest individual performances in IPL history and a defining moment in the rivalry.

2016 – RCB’s Batting Peak

The 2016 season saw RCB’s batting lineup at its most explosive, with Kohli scoring record-breaking runs throughout the tournament. Although MI secured one win, RCB’s aggressive approach and consistency made their clashes highly entertaining.

2017 – MI’s Title Momentum

Mumbai Indians lifted their third IPL trophy in 2017. In their match against RCB, MI defended a modest total successfully, exposing weaknesses in RCB’s middle order. It showcased MI’s ability to win low-scoring pressure games.

2018 – Dramatic Finishes

The 2018 encounters featured nail-biting finishes, with matches often decided in the final over. MI’s experience under pressure gave them an edge in tight moments.

2019 – The One-Run Thriller

One of the most unforgettable games in IPL history took place in 2019 at Bengaluru. Mumbai Indians defended a modest total and won by just one run on the final ball. Jasprit Bumrah’s death bowling precision proved decisive in sealing the dramatic victory.

2020 – Super Over Showdown

The 2020 season produced a thrilling Super Over contest between MI and RCB. After both teams scored identical totals, the match went into a Super Over, where RCB held their nerve to secure victory.

2021 – RCB’s Strong Campaign Start

RCB defeated MI in a closely fought game that showcased disciplined bowling and effective death-over execution. Harshal Patel’s bowling performance stood out.

2022 – Tactical Control

Royal Challengers Bengaluru controlled one of the encounters convincingly, restricting MI and chasing the target with authority.

2023 – Power-Hitting Display

Mumbai Indians chased down a massive total at Wankhede Stadium, demonstrating the depth of their batting lineup and fearless intent.

Complete Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Timeline Table

Season	Match No.	Venue	Winner	Margin	Key Highlight
2008	1	Mumbai	MI	9 wickets	Dominant home chase
2008	2	Bengaluru	RCB	5 wickets	Balanced team win
2009	1	Durban	RCB	9 wickets	Clinical bowling display
2010	1	Mumbai	MI	57 runs	Batting dominance
2010	2	Bengaluru	MI	35 runs	All-round performance
2011	1	Bengaluru	MI	9 wickets	Complete control
2012	1	Mumbai	RCB	9 wickets	Kohli match-winning knock
2013	1	Bengaluru	MI	5 wickets	Rohit captaincy impact
2014	1	Mumbai	MI	19 runs	Tight defense
2014	2	Bengaluru	RCB	7 wickets	Comfortable chase
2015	1	Mumbai	RCB	39 runs	AB de Villiers 133*
2015	2	Bengaluru	MI	18 runs	Pollard power
2016	1	Bengaluru	RCB	39 runs	Kohli-De Villiers show
2016	2	Mumbai	MI	6 wickets	Strong chase
2017	1	Mumbai	MI	4 wickets	Low-score thriller
2017	2	Bengaluru	MI	5 wickets	RCB collapse (49 all out)
2018	1	Mumbai	MI	46 runs	Batting explosion
2018	2	Bengaluru	RCB	14 runs	Home dominance
2019	1	Mumbai	MI	6 runs	Last-over finish
2019	2	Bengaluru	MI	1 run	Final-ball classic
2020	1	Dubai	RCB	Super Over	High drama thriller
2020	2	Abu Dhabi	MI	5 wickets	Controlled chase
2021	1	Chennai	RCB	2 wickets	Harshal Patel impact
2021	2	Dubai	MI	6 wickets	Clinical run chase
2022	1	Pune	RCB	7 wickets	Bowling discipline
2022	2	Mumbai	RCB	54 runs	Batting dominance
2023	1	Bengaluru	RCB	8 wickets	Kohli masterclass
2023	2	Mumbai	MI	6 wickets	Big Wankhede chase

Overall Head-to-Head Record

• Total Matches: 30+
• Mumbai Indians Wins: Higher overall count
• Royal Challengers Bengaluru Wins: Competitive share
• Closest Victory Margin: 1 run
• Super Over Encounters: 1

Mumbai Indians historically lead the rivalry, but RCB’s victories have often been dramatic and memorable.

Statistical Highlights of MI vs RCB Rivalry

• Highest Individual Score: AB de Villiers (133*)
• Best Bowling Figures: Jasprit Bumrah five-wicket haul
• Most Runs in Rivalry: Virat Kohli
• Most Wickets in Rivalry: Jasprit Bumrah
• Highest Team Total: 230+ by RCB
• Lowest Team Total: Below 100 (RCB collapse match)

Evolution of the Rivalry Over Time

The Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru timeline reflects IPL’s overall growth. Early seasons were experimental and unpredictable. Mid-era seasons saw strategic depth and strong leadership shaping outcomes. Recent years have emphasized aggressive batting, advanced analytics, and tactical matchups.

MI’s consistency in championships contrasts with RCB’s quest for their first title, adding emotional weight to each encounter. Every season brings renewed anticipation, as fans wonder whether MI will continue dominance or RCB will turn momentum in their favor.

FAQs – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Timeline

1. When did Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru first face each other?

They first played during IPL 2008.

2. Which team has won more matches in the MI vs RCB rivalry?

Mumbai Indians have historically won more matches overall.

3. What is the closest MI vs RCB match?

The 2019 match in Bengaluru where MI won by one run is considered the closest.

4. Has any MI vs RCB match gone to a Super Over?

Yes, their 2020 encounter ended in a Super Over.

5. Who has scored the most runs in MI vs RCB matches?

Virat Kohli ranks among the top run-scorers in this rivalry.

6. What is the highest individual score in this rivalry?

AB de Villiers’ unbeaten 133 remains the highest individual score.

7. Why is MI vs RCB rivalry popular?

Because it features star players, high-scoring thrillers, close finishes, and strong fan engagement.