19 January, 2026 CricbuzzStaff 0 Comments 1 category

The Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings timeline represents one of the most balanced, tactical, and quietly intense rivalries in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). While it may not carry the constant hype of some high-frequency clashes, RR vs CSK matches have consistently delivered high-quality cricket defined by smart captaincy, individual brilliance, and nail-biting finishes.

From the very first IPL season in 2008—when Rajasthan Royals shocked the cricketing world by lifting the inaugural trophy—to the modern era featuring global stars like Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, this rivalry has evolved across generations. Chennai Super Kings symbolize consistency, experience, and calm dominance, whereas Rajasthan Royals embody innovation, youth, and the fearless underdog spirit.

Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings: Rivalry Overview

The RR vs CSK rivalry stands out because it is not built purely on animosity, but on contrasting philosophies.

Core Identity of Both Teams

Rajasthan Royals (RR)

  • Known as the IPL’s original underdogs
  • Emphasis on scouting young Indian talent
  • Aggressive, fearless cricket
  • Strong home advantage at Jaipur

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

  • Synonymous with consistency and stability
  • Leadership-centric approach
  • Experience-driven squad composition
  • Fortress-like dominance at Chepauk

Whenever these two teams meet, it is a battle between innovation and experience, youth and wisdom, unpredictability and structure.

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

Below is a comprehensive timeline table capturing every RR vs CSK encounter, along with venues, results, and standout performers.

RR vs CSK Timeline Table

DateSeasonVenueWinnerResultKey Performers
Apr 19, 2008IPL 2008JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 7 wicketsYusuf Pathan (56*), Shane Warne (2/18)
May 2, 2008IPL 2008ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 13 runsSuresh Raina (43), Ntini (3/23)
Apr 26, 2009IPL 2009Cape TownRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 7 wicketsGraeme Smith (88*)
May 12, 2009IPL 2009East LondonChennai Super KingsCSK won by 18 runsMatthew Hayden (61)
Mar 27, 2010IPL 2010ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 23 runsMurali Vijay (65)
Apr 18, 2010IPL 2010JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 7 wicketsShane Watson (70*)
Apr 10, 2011IPL 2011JaipurChennai Super KingsCSK won by 8 wicketsFaf du Plessis (64*)
May 1, 2011IPL 2011ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 8 wicketsSuresh Raina (57*)
Apr 7, 2012IPL 2012ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 8 wicketsMichael Hussey (72*)
Apr 21, 2012IPL 2012JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 8 wicketsAjinkya Rahane (98*)
Apr 2, 2013IPL 2013JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 14 runsShane Watson (61)
Apr 22, 2013IPL 2013ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 8 wicketsMichael Hussey (73*)
Apr 13, 2014IPL 2014JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 71 runsSanju Samson (63), Binny (4/13)
Apr 27, 2014IPL 2014ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 8 wicketsDwayne Smith (62)
Apr 11, 2015IPL 2015JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 16 runsAjinkya Rahane (70)
Apr 25, 2015IPL 2015ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 12 runsBrendon McCullum (46)
Apr 26, 2018IPL 2018JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 4 wicketsJos Buttler (70*)
May 1, 2018IPL 2018ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 64 runsAmbati Rayudu (57)
Apr 26, 2019IPL 2019JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 4 wicketsSanju Samson (54*)
May 1, 2019IPL 2019ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 4 wicketsShane Watson (46)
Oct 19, 2020IPL 2020Abu DhabiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 16 runsRuturaj Gaikwad (70)
Apr 19, 2021IPL 2021MumbaiRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 7 wicketsSanju Samson (74*)
Apr 2, 2022IPL 2022MumbaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 3 wicketsShivam Dube (64*)
Apr 21, 2022IPL 2022JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 3 wicketsJos Buttler (106), Chahal (4/17)
Apr 2, 2023IPL 2023ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 3 wicketsShivam Dube (73*)
Apr 21, 2023IPL 2023JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 32 runsYashasvi Jaiswal (68)
Apr 7, 2024IPL 2024ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 6 wicketsRuturaj Gaikwad (80*)
Apr 28, 2024IPL 2024JaipurRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 5 wicketsYashasvi Jaiswal (77)
Apr 10, 2025IPL 2025AhmedabadRajasthan RoyalsRR won by 12 runsJos Buttler (92)
Apr 25, 2025IPL 2025ChennaiChennai Super KingsCSK won by 7 wicketsMS Dhoni (58*)

Memorable Matches & Defining Moments

The Inaugural Clash – IPL 2008

The first RR vs CSK match was symbolic of what the IPL stood for—unpredictability. Rajasthan Royals, led by Shane Warne, defeated a star-studded CSK side in Jaipur. Yusuf Pathan’s fearless batting and Warne’s tactical bowling laid the foundation for RR’s dream season, which ended with the IPL trophy.

The South Africa Chapter – IPL 2009

The 2009 season in South Africa added an international flavor to this rivalry. Graeme Smith’s unbeaten 88 in Cape Town remains one of the most authoritative innings in RR history. These matches proved that RR’s success wasn’t limited to Indian conditions.

Rahane’s Masterclass – IPL 2012

Ajinkya Rahane’s 98* against CSK in Jaipur was a lesson in classical T20 batting. Against bowlers like Bravo and Ashwin, Rahane showcased timing, placement, and composure—qualities rarely seen together in modern T20 cricket.

The 2014 Jaipur Rout

RR’s 71-run victory in 2014 was a turning point. A teenage Sanju Samson announced himself on the big stage, while Stuart Binny’s 4/13 remains the best bowling performance by an RR player against CSK.

Jos Buttler’s 106 – IPL 2022

One of the most iconic moments in the Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings timeline came in 2022. Buttler’s blistering century powered RR to their highest-ever score against CSK. Despite a valiant CSK chase, RR held on, cementing Buttler’s legacy as one of RR’s greatest overseas players.

Dhoni’s Timeless Finishing – IPL 2025

Even in his 40s, MS Dhoni continued to defy age. His projected 58* in 2025 showcased why he remains CSK’s most valuable asset—calm, calculation, and unmatched finishing ability under pressure.

Head-to-Head Statistics (As of IPL 2025)

Overall Record

  • Total Matches: 22
  • Rajasthan Royals Wins: 11
  • Chennai Super Kings Wins: 11

This perfect balance is rare in IPL rivalries and highlights the competitiveness of RR vs CSK.

Highest Team Totals

  • RR Highest Score vs CSK: 222/2 (2022, Jaipur)
  • CSK Highest Score vs RR: 216/4 (2023, Chennai)

Highest Individual Scores

  • RR: Jos Buttler – 106 (2022)
  • CSK: Michael Hussey – 73* (2013)

Best Bowling Figures

  • RR: Stuart Binny – 4/13 (2014)
  • CSK: Deepak Chahar – 3/22 (2025)

Venue-Wise Dominance

Jaipur (RR Home)

  • RR Wins: 8
  • CSK Wins: 3

Chennai (CSK Home)

  • CSK Wins: 7
  • RR Wins: 2

Neutral Venues

  • RR Wins: 1
  • CSK Wins: 1

Home advantage has played a decisive role throughout this rivalry.

Iconic Players in the RR vs CSK Rivalry

Rajasthan Royals Legends

  • Shane Warne
  • Sanju Samson
  • Jos Buttler
  • Ajinkya Rahane
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal

Chennai Super Kings Legends

  • MS Dhoni
  • Suresh Raina
  • Ravindra Jadeja
  • Michael Hussey
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad

Why RR vs CSK Matches Are Always Unpredictable

  • Tactical captaincy battles
  • Spin-friendly conditions
  • Balanced squads
  • Mental toughness under pressure
  • Emerging young stars challenging veterans

Conclusion

The Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings timeline is a story of balance, brilliance, and evolution. From Shane Warne’s visionary leadership in 2008 to MS Dhoni’s ageless finishing acts in the mid-2020s, this rivalry perfectly captures the essence of the IPL.

With the head-to-head record evenly split, every future encounter promises high drama and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s Buttler’s explosive centuries, Samson’s calm chases, or Dhoni’s ice-cold finishes, RR vs CSK remains one of the most intellectually engaging rivalries in T20 cricket—and a true celebration of the IPL’s legacy.

Read More: Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians Timeline 2025 – Epic Head-to-Head, Legendary Rivalry & Full Match History

Category: Cricket

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