The rivalry between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) has always been an exciting chapter in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Over the years, both teams have produced nail-biting finishes, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable cricketing moments. Here's a complete timeline of RCB vs DC encounters, covering their journey from the inaugural season to the present day.

Early Years (2008–2010) – A Balanced Start

In the initial IPL seasons, RCB and DC (then called Delhi Daredevils) shared an evenly matched rivalry.

  • 2008: Delhi started strong with key victories.

  • 2009: Both sides showed competitive cricket, with Delhi often dominating in batting.

  • 2010: Close matches kept the rivalry alive, with neither side fully in control.

Summary:

  • Matches Played: 5

  • RCB Wins: 2

  • DC Wins: 3

Mid-Era (2011–2015) – RCB Takes the Lead

This period saw RCB's batting firepower, led by Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and AB de Villiers, overpower Delhi's bowling attack.

  • 2011–2013: RCB dominated, securing key wins with massive totals.

  • 2014–2015: Even though DC struggled in the league, RCB maintained an upper hand.

Summary:

  • Matches Played: 9

  • RCB Wins: 6

  • DC Wins: 3

The Competitive Phase (2016–2018)

Delhi Capitals (still known as Delhi Daredevils until 2018) became more competitive, but RCB's experienced squad often sealed victories.

  • 2016: RCB's top-order brilliance shone.

  • 2017–2018: Matches became more unpredictable, with DC securing some close wins.

Summary:

  • Matches Played: 6

  • RCB Wins: 4

  • DC Wins: 2

Modern Rivalry (2019–2021) – DC Strikes Back

This phase marked a shift as DC became one of the strongest IPL teams under Shreyas Iyer and later Rishabh Pant's leadership.

  • 2019–2020: DC defeated RCB multiple times, including crucial playoff-contending matches.

  • 2021: Both teams produced thrillers, with last-over finishes becoming common.

Summary:

  • Matches Played: 6

  • RCB Wins: 2

  • DC Wins: 4

Recent Encounters (2022–2024) – Neck and Neck

The most recent seasons have seen both RCB and DC trading wins, making the rivalry unpredictable.

  • 2022–2023: Both teams showcased balanced performances with star players in form.

  • 2024: Matches decided by narrow margins kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Summary:

  • Matches Played: 7

  • RCB Wins: 4

  • DC Wins: 3

Memorable RCB vs DC Moments

  1. Chris Gayle's Power Show (2012) – Gayle's explosive batting against Delhi remains one of the most iconic innings.

  2. Kagiso Rabada's Deadly Spell (2020) – Rabada's yorkers stunned RCB's batting order.

  3. Last-Ball Thriller (2021) – RCB chased a target with just one ball to spare.

Conclusion

The RCB vs DC timeline is filled with intense clashes, individual brilliance, and unpredictable twists. With both teams boasting star-studded line-ups and passionate fanbases, every encounter is a cricketing spectacle. Fans eagerly await their next face-off to see which side takes the upper hand in this ever-evolving rivalry.