The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings timeline is one of the more fascinating long-running matchups in IPL history. The rivalry began in the inaugural 2008 season, when Punjab played as Kings XI Punjab, and has continued through different eras, captains, squads and even changes in franchise branding. Over the years, KKR and Punjab have produced everything an IPL rivalry needs: close finishes, one-wicket wins, big totals, dramatic chases and memorable individual performances.
Kolkata have generally held the upper hand in the KKR vs PBKS head-to-head record, but Punjab have repeatedly shown that they can turn the fixture on its head. Their 2024 meeting at Eden Gardens is a perfect example. KKR scored 261/6, only for Punjab to chase 262 in 18.4 overs, with Jonny Bairstow making 108 off 48 balls.
The rivalry has also produced important knockout cricket. In 2014, the two sides met in Qualifier 1 before facing each other again in the final. KKR won both matches, including a three-wicket victory in the final in Bengaluru.
This complete Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings match history covers the rivalry from 2008 through the latest 2026 meeting, including season-wise results, head-to-head numbers, biggest wins, highest scores, top performers, venue records and some of the most memorable games between the two franchises.
Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings Head-to-Head Record
As of the end of the 2026 meeting, KKR and PBKS have played 36 IPL matches against each other. Kolkata have won 21, Punjab have won 13, while two matches ended without a result. The latest meeting, on April 6, 2026, was abandoned because of rain.
| Category | KKR | PBKS |
| Total Matches | 36 | 36 |
| Wins | 21 | 13 |
| Losses | 13 | 21 |
| No Results | 2 | 2 |
| Win Percentage* | 58.33% | 36.11% |
| Highest Team Score | 261/6 | 262/2 |
| Lowest Completed Total | 95 | 111 |
| Biggest Win by Runs | 39 runs | 23 runs |
| Biggest Win by Wickets | 9 wickets | 9 wickets |
*Win percentage shown against total meetings, including no-results.
The numbers clearly favour KKR. Kolkata have won more than three-fifths of the completed encounters, while Punjab have had to rely on occasional bursts of dominance rather than sustained superiority.
One of the most interesting aspects of the record is the contrast between overall success and individual match extremes. KKR lead the rivalry 21-13, yet Punjab own the highest team total and the biggest successful chase in this matchup: 262/2 against KKR in 2024.
That contrast explains why KKR vs PBKS IPL history is more competitive than the overall win-loss table might suggest.
Also read this: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals Match Scorecard | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals Timeline | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Match Scorecard
Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings Timeline: Season-by-Season
The rivalry has changed considerably over the years. In the early seasons, both teams frequently traded wins. KKR then established longer periods of dominance, particularly from 2014 through 2016 and again in 2019-20. Punjab have enjoyed their own memorable victories, especially in recent seasons.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2008
The first KKR vs Punjab Kings meetings came in the inaugural IPL season, when Punjab were known as Kings XI Punjab.
The teams split their two matches. Punjab won the first encounter by nine runs at Mohali, while KKR responded with a three-wicket victory at Eden Gardens. The second game was a tense chase in which Kolkata reached the target with two balls remaining.
2008 season result: 1-1
The opening season established a pattern that would become familiar throughout the rivalry: neither team was guaranteed an easy win.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2009
The 2009 IPL was played in South Africa, creating a different setting for the rivalry.
KKR won the first meeting by 11 runs at Kingsmead in Durban, with the match being decided by the Duckworth-Lewis method. Punjab responded in Port Elizabeth by winning the second match by six wickets, reaching the target with the final delivery.
2009 season result: 1-1
The two games were very different in character. KKR’s first victory came through a rain-affected contest, while Punjab’s reply was a last-ball chase.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2010
The 2010 season again produced a split result.
KKR recorded one of their largest victories in the rivalry at Mohali, winning by 39 runs. Punjab then answered at Eden Gardens, winning by eight wickets after chasing down Kolkata’s total.
2010 season result: 1-1
The 39-run KKR victory remains Kolkata’s biggest win by runs against Punjab. It was an early example of KKR’s ability to turn a matchup into a one-sided contest when their bowling attack found the right conditions.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2011
The teams met only once in 2011, with KKR winning by eight wickets at Eden Gardens.
Punjab made 119/6, but Kolkata chased the target comfortably, finishing with 16 balls remaining.
2011 season result: KKR won 1-0
The result also demonstrated the growing influence of KKR’s bowling attack. Punjab’s total was never enough to put serious pressure on the home side.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2012
The 2012 season produced one of the closest matches in the entire rivalry.
Punjab won the first meeting at Eden Gardens by just two runs. KKR then responded strongly in Mohali, defeating Punjab by eight wickets with 21 balls remaining.
2012 season result: 1-1
The two-run thriller is especially memorable because it featured an outstanding bowling performance from Sunil Narine. He finished with 5/19, which remains KKR’s best bowling performance against Punjab.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2013
The 2013 rivalry followed the same pattern.
Punjab won the Mohali encounter by four runs, defending a narrow total. Kolkata then returned the favour at Eden Gardens by winning by six wickets.
2013 season result: 1-1
Neither team could establish complete control, and the margin between the sides remained relatively small.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2014
The 2014 season was arguably the most important chapter in the rivalry.
The teams met four times, including Qualifier 1 and the IPL final. Punjab won the first league meeting in Abu Dhabi by 23 runs, but KKR then dominated the remaining three games.
Kolkata won by nine wickets in Cuttack, defeated Punjab by 28 runs in Qualifier 1 at Eden Gardens and then beat them by three wickets in the final at Bengaluru.
2014 season result: KKR 3-1
The final was one of the defining games in the history of the matchup. Punjab scored 199/4, powered by an unbeaten 115 from Wriddhiman Saha. KKR, however, chased the target successfully and won by three wickets. Saha’s 115* remains the highest individual score by a Punjab batter in this fixture.
The 2014 final also cemented KKR’s reputation as the stronger side in high-pressure meetings between these teams.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2015
Kolkata continued their dominance in 2015.
The first meeting at Pune ended with KKR winning by four wickets. The return match at Eden Gardens was much more dramatic, with Kolkata scraping home by one wicket with one ball remaining.
2015 season result: KKR 2-0
The one-wicket victory remains one of the closest finishes in KKR vs PBKS history and added another chapter to the rivalry’s collection of last-over thrillers.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2016
KKR completed another clean sweep in 2016.
Kolkata won by six wickets at Mohali and then by seven runs at Eden Gardens.
2016 season result: KKR 2-0
The seven-run win was another example of KKR successfully defending a competitive total under pressure.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2017
Punjab stopped KKR’s winning momentum in 2017 by splitting the two matches.
KKR won the first game in Kolkata by eight wickets, but Kings XI Punjab responded with a 14-run win at Mohali.
2017 season result: 1-1
The result marked the beginning of another period in which Punjab became more competitive against Kolkata.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2018
The 2018 meetings were again split.
Punjab won by nine wickets at Eden Gardens in a rain-affected game. KKR responded in Indore with a 31-run victory.
2018 season result: 1-1
The Indore match was particularly memorable for its high-scoring nature. KKR posted 245/6, while Punjab made 214/8. KKR’s 245 remained their highest score in this rivalry for several years.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2019
KKR enjoyed one of their strongest seasons against Punjab in 2019, winning both meetings.
They won by 28 runs at Eden Gardens and followed it with a seven-wicket victory at Mohali, reaching the target with 12 balls remaining.
2019 season result: KKR 2-0
The double victory reinforced KKR’s overall advantage in the rivalry.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2020
The 2020 IPL was played in the UAE, and the two teams again produced contrasting contests.
KKR won the first game in Abu Dhabi by just two runs after scoring 164/6. Punjab later won the return fixture in Sharjah by eight wickets.
2020 season result: 1-1
The two-run victory is one of the clearest examples of how small the margin could be between these teams.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2021
The teams split their two matches in 2021.
KKR won the April meeting in Ahmedabad by five wickets, while Punjab won the October game in Dubai by five wickets.
2021 season result: 1-1
The season continued the recent pattern of alternating success.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2022
The teams met once in 2022.
KKR defeated Punjab by six wickets at Wankhede Stadium on April 1.
2022 season result: KKR won 1-0
The match was another reminder of KKR’s ability to chase Punjab’s totals successfully.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2023
The 2023 season featured two very different matches.
Punjab won the opening meeting by seven runs using the DLS method. KKR then produced a five-wicket victory at Eden Gardens in May.
2023 season result: 1-1
The split meant neither side could gain a clear seasonal advantage.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2024
The 2024 match at Eden Gardens became one of the most remarkable games in IPL history.
KKR scored a huge 261/6 in 20 overs. Punjab then produced an extraordinary chase, reaching 262/2 in only 18.4 overs to win by eight wickets. Jonny Bairstow smashed 108 from 48 deliveries and was named Player of the Match.
2024 season result: PBKS won 1-0
The game completely changed the record-book conversation around KKR vs PBKS. Punjab’s 262/2 became the highest team score in the fixture and one of the greatest successful chases in T20 cricket.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2025
Punjab continued their strong recent run in 2025.
The first meeting took place at Mullanpur on April 15, with Punjab winning by 16 runs. Yuzvendra Chahal played a starring role, taking four wickets as KKR were bowled out for just 95.
The return fixture at Eden Gardens on April 26 was abandoned after rain. Punjab had made 201/4 before the match was stopped, while KKR had reached 7/0 after one over.
2025 season result: PBKS 1-0, with one no result
Punjab’s 111 all out in the first match proved particularly significant because it was still enough to produce a 16-run victory. The result is widely noted as the lowest total successfully defended in IPL history.
KKR vs PBKS Timeline 2026
The latest meeting came on April 6, 2026, at Eden Gardens.
The match was abandoned because of rain, meaning neither team was awarded a win. The game ended as a no result.
2026 season result: No result
That means the most recent completed KKR vs PBKS match remains Punjab’s 16-run victory at Mullanpur in April 2025.
KKR vs PBKS All Match Results
The complete IPL record contains 36 meetings from 2008 through 2026. The list below shows the rivalry’s match-by-match progression. Historical records use the name Kings XI Punjab for Punjab’s earlier seasons.
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Margin |
| 2008 | May 3 | Mohali | PBKS/KXIP | 9 runs |
| 2008 | May 25 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 3 wickets |
| 2009 | Apr 21 | Durban | KKR | 11 runs, DLS |
| 2009 | May 3 | Port Elizabeth | PBKS/KXIP | 6 wickets |
| 2010 | Mar 27 | Mohali | KKR | 39 runs |
| 2010 | Apr 4 | Eden Gardens | PBKS/KXIP | 8 wickets |
| 2011 | Apr 30 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 8 wickets |
| 2012 | Apr 15 | Eden Gardens | PBKS/KXIP | 2 runs |
| 2012 | Apr 18 | Mohali | KKR | 8 wickets |
| 2013 | Apr 16 | Mohali | PBKS/KXIP | 4 runs |
| 2013 | Apr 26 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 6 wickets |
| 2014 | Apr 26 | Abu Dhabi | PBKS/KXIP | 23 runs |
| 2014 | May 11 | Cuttack | KKR | 9 wickets |
| 2014 | May 27 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 28 runs |
| 2014 | Jun 1 | Bengaluru | KKR | 3 wickets |
| 2015 | Apr 18 | Pune | KKR | 4 wickets |
| 2015 | May 9 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 1 wicket |
| 2016 | Apr 19 | Mohali | KKR | 6 wickets |
| 2016 | May 4 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 7 runs |
| 2017 | Apr 13 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 8 wickets |
| 2017 | May 9 | Mohali | PBKS/KXIP | 14 runs |
| 2018 | Apr 21 | Eden Gardens | PBKS/KXIP | 9 wickets |
| 2018 | May 12 | Indore | KKR | 31 runs |
| 2019 | Mar 27 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 28 runs |
| 2019 | May 3 | Mohali | KKR | 7 wickets |
| 2020 | Oct 10 | Abu Dhabi | KKR | 2 runs |
| 2020 | Oct 26 | Sharjah | PBKS/KXIP | 8 wickets |
| 2021 | Apr 26 | Ahmedabad | KKR | 5 wickets |
| 2021 | Oct 1 | Dubai | PBKS | 5 wickets |
| 2022 | Apr 1 | Mumbai | KKR | 6 wickets |
| 2023 | Apr 1 | Mohali | PBKS | 7 runs, DLS |
| 2023 | May 8 | Eden Gardens | KKR | 5 wickets |
| 2024 | Apr 26 | Eden Gardens | PBKS | 8 wickets |
| 2025 | Apr 15 | Mullanpur | PBKS | 16 runs |
| 2025 | Apr 26 | Eden Gardens | No result | Abandoned |
| 2026 | Apr 6 | Eden Gardens | No result | Abandoned |
The match list shows a clear long-term trend: KKR dominated the middle portion of the rivalry, while PBKS have become much more competitive in the later years. The 2023-25 period in particular gave Punjab several important wins.
KKR vs PBKS Last 10 Matches
The recent head-to-head record provides a very different picture from the all-time numbers.
| Date | Venue | Result |
| Apr 6, 2026 | Eden Gardens | No result |
| Apr 26, 2025 | Eden Gardens | No result |
| Apr 15, 2025 | Mullanpur | PBKS won by 16 runs |
| Apr 26, 2024 | Eden Gardens | PBKS won by 8 wickets |
| May 8, 2023 | Eden Gardens | KKR won by 5 wickets |
| Apr 1, 2023 | Mohali | PBKS won by 7 runs |
| Apr 1, 2022 | Mumbai | KKR won by 6 wickets |
| Oct 1, 2021 | Dubai | PBKS won by 5 wickets |
| Apr 26, 2021 | Ahmedabad | KKR won by 5 wickets |
| Oct 26, 2020 | Sharjah | PBKS won by 8 wickets |
Across these ten most recent meetings, the completed matches have been much more balanced than the overall record. IPL’s head-to-head listing records the recent sequence as a competitive one, with the two abandoned matches further complicating the raw win count.
This is important for understanding the modern KKR vs PBKS rivalry. Historical dominance does not necessarily tell the whole story when judging the teams’ more recent meetings.
Biggest Wins in KKR vs PBKS History
KKR’s Biggest Wins Against PBKS
KKR’s largest victory by runs came in 2010, when they defeated Punjab by 39 runs at Mohali.
Their largest victory by wickets came in 2014, when KKR defeated Punjab by nine wickets in Cuttack.
| Record | Result | Season | Venue |
| Biggest win by runs | 39 runs | 2010 | Mohali |
| Biggest win by wickets | 9 wickets | 2014 | Cuttack |
PBKS’s Biggest Wins Against KKR
Punjab’s biggest win by runs came in 2014, when Kings XI Punjab defeated KKR by 23 runs in Abu Dhabi.
Their biggest win by wickets came in 2018, when Punjab won by nine wickets at Eden Gardens.
| Record | Result | Season | Venue |
| Biggest win by runs | 23 runs | 2014 | Abu Dhabi |
| Biggest win by wickets | 9 wickets | 2018 | Eden Gardens |
The fact that both teams have recorded nine-wicket victories shows that the fixture has occasionally swung dramatically in one direction.
KKR vs PBKS Closest and Most Thrilling Matches
One of the defining characteristics of this rivalry is the number of narrow finishes.
The 2012 two-run match is one of the earliest examples. Punjab successfully defended a small margin at Eden Gardens, beating KKR by only two runs.
The 2015 one-wicket thriller was even tighter. KKR successfully chased Punjab’s target at Eden Gardens with just one wicket and one ball remaining.
The 2020 two-run victory also deserves a place on the list. KKR scored 164/6 and held Punjab to 162/5 in Abu Dhabi.
Another memorable game came in 2013, when Punjab defeated KKR by four runs at Mohali.
These results explain why simply looking at the overall 21-13 head-to-head record can be misleading. A significant number of matches have been decided in the final overs.
Highest Scores in KKR vs PBKS Matches
The highest team score in the rivalry belongs to Punjab Kings.
| Team | Score | Season | Venue | Result |
| PBKS | 262/2 | 2024 | Eden Gardens | PBKS won |
| KKR | 261/6 | 2024 | Eden Gardens | PBKS won |
| KKR | 245/6 | 2018 | Indore | KKR won |
| PBKS | 214/8 | 2018 | Indore | KKR won |
Punjab’s 262/2 in 2024 remains the standout total. It came while chasing KKR’s 261/6 and was achieved with eight wickets still in hand.
The same match therefore occupies the top two positions for team scores in the rivalry: KKR’s 261/6 and PBKS’s 262/2.
Before 2024, KKR’s 245/6 against Punjab in Indore in 2018 was their highest score in this fixture.
Lowest Scores in KKR vs PBKS Matches
The rivalry has also produced some surprisingly low totals.
| Team | Score | Season | Venue | Result |
| KKR | 95 all out | 2025 | Mullanpur | PBKS won by 16 runs |
| KKR | 109 all out | 2014 | Abu Dhabi | PBKS won by 23 runs |
| PBKS | 119/6 | 2011 | Eden Gardens | KKR won by 8 wickets |
KKR’s 95 all out in 2025 is particularly notable because Punjab defended only 111. The match became one of the most unusual results in IPL history: a team successfully defended a total of just 111.
That match showed how quickly a high-scoring rivalry can turn into a bowling-dominated contest.
KKR vs PBKS Top Run Scorers
Several prominent IPL batters have enjoyed strong records in this fixture.
Gautam Gambhir is the leading run scorer in the overall rivalry with 492 runs. Robin Uthappa follows with 438, while Andre Russell has also made a significant contribution.
| Rank | Player | Team | Runs |
| 1 | Gautam Gambhir | KKR | 492 |
| 2 | Robin Uthappa | KKR | 438 |
| 3 | Andre Russell | KKR | 400+ |
| 4 | Wriddhiman Saha | PBKS | 322 |
| 5 | KL Rahul | PBKS | 317 |
The exact totals can vary slightly between statistical databases depending on the treatment of franchise-era records and database updates, but Gambhir’s position at the top is consistent across major historical records.
Highest Individual Score in KKR vs PBKS History
The highest individual score belongs to Wriddhiman Saha, who smashed an unbeaten 115 in the 2014 IPL final.
| Player | Team | Score | Season |
| Wriddhiman Saha | PBKS/KXIP | 115* | 2014 |
| Manish Pandey | KKR | 94 | 2014 |
| Mahela Jayawardene | PBKS/KXIP | 110* | Earlier IPL season |
Saha’s innings remains particularly memorable because it came in an IPL final. Despite his century, Punjab could not defend their total and KKR went on to lift the trophy.
KKR vs PBKS Top Wicket-Takers
Sunil Narine has been the standout bowler in this rivalry.
He has taken 36 wickets against Punjab, giving him a significant lead over the other bowlers in the matchup.
| Rank | Player | Team | Wickets |
| 1 | Sunil Narine | KKR | 36 |
| 2 | Umesh Yadav | KKR | 19 |
| 3 | Piyush Chawla | PBKS/KXIP | 24* |
| 4 | Arshdeep Singh | PBKS | 11 |
| 5 | Varun Chakravarthy | KKR | 11 |
*Historical databases can show different ranking orders depending on the number of matches and franchise-era data included.
Narine’s dominance is particularly impressive because he has been part of the KKR setup across multiple generations of the rivalry.
Best Bowling Figures
Narine also owns the best bowling figures for KKR against Punjab: 5/19. The performance came in the 2012 season.
| Bowler | Team | Figures | Season |
| Sunil Narine | KKR | 5/19 | 2012 |
| Sandeep Sharma | PBKS/KXIP | 4/25 | 2015 |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | PBKS | 4/28 | 2025 |
The 2025 performance from Chahal was particularly influential because his four wickets helped Punjab defend only 111 against the defending champions.
KKR vs PBKS Venue-Wise Record
The rivalry has been played across many venues because IPL fixtures have moved between home grounds, neutral venues and overseas locations.
Eden Gardens has hosted the most KKR vs PBKS meetings. One current statistical database lists 15 meetings there, with KKR winning nine, Punjab four and two ending without a result.
| Venue | Matches | KKR Wins | PBKS Wins | No Result |
| Eden Gardens | 15 | 9 | 4 | 2 |
| Mohali/PCA Stadium | 8 | 4 | 4 | 0 |
| Abu Dhabi | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Other Venues | 11 | 7 | 4 | 0 |
KKR vs PBKS at Eden Gardens
Eden Gardens has generally been a favourable venue for KKR in this matchup.
Kolkata have won the majority of their meetings against Punjab at their traditional home ground, although the venue has also witnessed some of Punjab’s most memorable victories.
The 2018 nine-wicket Punjab win and the 2024 record chase are particularly important examples. The 2024 match showed that even a strong KKR total at Eden Gardens is not necessarily safe against an aggressive Punjab batting lineup.
KKR vs PBKS in Punjab
Mohali has traditionally provided a more balanced contest.
The teams have repeatedly exchanged victories there. KKR’s 39-run win in 2010 and their six-wicket victory in 2016 are among their notable performances at the venue.
KKR vs PBKS at Other IPL Venues
The rivalry has also travelled outside Kolkata and Punjab.
Matches have been played in Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cuttack, Abu Dhabi, Bengaluru, Pune, Indore, Dubai, Sharjah, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
This international and neutral-venue history gives the fixture an added dimension.
KKR vs PBKS Memorable IPL Matches
2012: Punjab’s Two-Run Victory
The 2012 match at Eden Gardens was decided by just two runs. Punjab held their nerve in the final stages to beat KKR in a match where every delivery mattered.
The game also sits alongside Sunil Narine’s famous five-wicket performance in the historical record of the fixture.
2014: KKR’s Nine-Wicket Victory
Before their playoff meetings, KKR defeated Punjab by nine wickets in Cuttack.
It was a convincing performance and a sign of what was to come later in the season.
2014 IPL Final: KKR vs Kings XI Punjab
This remains the most important match in the history of the rivalry.
Punjab posted 199/4, with Wriddhiman Saha producing an unbeaten 115. KKR, however, chased the target and won by three wickets.
The victory gave KKR another IPL championship and made the 2014 season a defining chapter in their rivalry with Punjab.
2015: KKR’s One-Wicket Thriller
KKR defeated Punjab by one wicket at Eden Gardens, reaching the target with just one ball remaining.
It was the kind of match that kept the KKR-PBKS rivalry associated with close finishes.
2018: Punjab’s Nine-Wicket Win
Punjab responded to KKR’s strong home record by winning at Eden Gardens by nine wickets.
It was a comprehensive victory and one of Punjab’s biggest performances against KKR by wickets.
2020: KKR Hold Their Nerve by Two Runs
KKR scored 164/6 in Abu Dhabi and defended the total, restricting Punjab to 162/5.
The two-run margin made it one of the tightest modern meetings between the sides.
2024: Punjab Chase 262
The 2024 encounter is arguably the most spectacular match in the entire rivalry.
KKR made 261/6. Punjab responded with 262/2 in only 18.4 overs. Jonny Bairstow’s 108 from 48 balls was the centerpiece of the chase.
The match demonstrated just how far modern T20 batting had evolved. A target that would once have seemed almost unreachable was chased with eight wickets still in hand.
2025: Punjab Defend 111
Just one year later, the rivalry produced the opposite kind of match.
Punjab were bowled out for 111, but KKR collapsed for 95. Yuzvendra Chahal took four wickets and Punjab won by 16 runs.
The contrast between the 262 chase in 2024 and the 111 defence in 2025 perfectly summarizes the unpredictable nature of KKR vs PBKS.
KKR vs PBKS Key Players in the Rivalry
Best KKR Performers Against PBKS
Gautam Gambhir
Gambhir sits at the top of the KKR run-scoring charts against Punjab with 492 runs. His consistency was a major part of KKR’s dominance during the 2010s.
Sunil Narine
Narine has arguably been the most influential bowler in this rivalry. His 36 wickets and best figures of 5/19 underline his impact.
Robin Uthappa
Uthappa’s 438 runs put him second among KKR’s leading run scorers against Punjab in historical records.
Andre Russell
Russell has also produced several explosive performances against Punjab and has crossed the 400-run mark in the fixture according to historical statistical records.
Best PBKS Performers Against KKR
Wriddhiman Saha
Saha’s unbeaten 115 in the 2014 final remains the highest individual score by a Punjab batter in this matchup.
KL Rahul
Rahul has been one of Punjab’s most productive batters against KKR, with more than 300 runs in the fixture.
Piyush Chawla
Chawla has historically been one of Punjab’s leading wicket-takers against KKR, with 24 wickets in the matchup in historical records.
Yuzvendra Chahal
Chahal added his name to the rivalry’s memorable bowling performances in 2025, taking four wickets in Punjab’s 16-run victory.
KKR vs PBKS Team Records
| Record | KKR | PBKS |
| Most Wins | 21 | 13 |
| Highest Score | 261/6 | 262/2 |
| Lowest Completed Total | 95 | 111 |
| Biggest Win by Runs | 39 | 23 |
| Biggest Win by Wickets | 9 | 9 |
| Highest Individual Score | 94 | 115* |
| Best Bowling | 5/19 | 4/25* |
| Most Runs | Gautam Gambhir | Wriddhiman Saha |
| Leading Wicket-Taker | Sunil Narine | Piyush Chawla* |
The statistics illustrate the unusual balance of the rivalry. KKR own the better overall record, but PBKS have several of the most spectacular single-match records, including the highest score and highest individual innings.
KKR vs PBKS Match Timeline at a Glance
| Year | Matches | KKR Wins | PBKS Wins | No Result |
| 2008 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2009 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2010 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2011 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2012 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2013 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2014 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
| 2015 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 2016 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2018 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2019 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2021 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2022 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2024 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2025 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2026 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Total | 36 | 21 | 13 | 2 |
The season-by-season pattern is revealing. KKR dominated 2014-16, winning seven of the eight meetings across those three seasons. They also won both matches in 2015, 2016 and 2019.
Punjab’s strongest recent stretch came from 2023 onward, when they picked up several important victories, including the extraordinary 2024 chase and the 2025 win at Mullanpur.
How the KKR vs PBKS Rivalry Has Changed Over the Years
The KKR vs PBKS rivalry has gone through several distinct phases.
The first few seasons were largely balanced. From 2008 to 2013, most seasons ended with the teams splitting their matches, although KKR began to establish an advantage.
The 2014 season was the major turning point. Punjab entered the playoffs as one of the strongest sides in the tournament, but KKR defeated them in Qualifier 1 and then again in the final. That double victory gave Kolkata psychological and competitive superiority in the matchup.
From 2015 through 2016, KKR strengthened that advantage by winning four consecutive matches against Punjab.
The rivalry became more balanced again from 2017 onward. Punjab secured important victories in 2017, 2018 and 2020, while KKR continued to collect wins of their own.
The modern era has been especially unpredictable. Punjab’s 262/2 chase in 2024 was followed by their successful defence of 111 in 2025. Those two matches could hardly have been more different, yet both ended with Punjab defeating KKR.
That is what makes the rivalry interesting from a historical perspective. The teams have not simply traded wins; they have produced dramatically different types of matches.
KKR vs PBKS Recent Form and Rivalry Trend
The recent record suggests that Punjab have narrowed the gap considerably.
KKR remain comfortably ahead in the overall head-to-head standings, with 21 wins compared with Punjab’s 13. However, several of Punjab’s recent victories have been emphatic or historically significant.
The 2024 win was a record-breaking batting performance. Punjab chased 262/2 at Eden Gardens, one of the highest successful chases in T20 cricket.
The 2025 victory was almost the complete opposite. Punjab defended 111, with Chahal taking four wickets and KKR being dismissed for 95.
This recent contrast suggests that the fixture can no longer be viewed simply through KKR’s historical dominance. Punjab have shown they can beat Kolkata in multiple ways: by overpowering a huge total or by winning a low-scoring battle.
Why KKR vs PBKS Is an Interesting IPL Rivalry
Unlike some IPL rivalries that are built primarily around geographical or historical competition, KKR vs PBKS has developed through repeated high-drama encounters.
There have been:
- One-wicket victories
- Two-run finishes
- Four-run finishes
- Nine-wicket wins
- Huge successful chases
- Low-total defences
- An IPL final
- Rain-affected matches
- Outstanding individual performances
The rivalry also spans multiple generations of IPL cricket. Players such as Gautam Gambhir, Robin Uthappa, Sunil Narine, Piyush Chawla and Wriddhiman Saha shaped the earlier years, while players such as Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh and newer generations of batters have added a modern dimension.
The changing names of the Punjab franchise also form part of the timeline. The team competed as Kings XI Punjab for many seasons before becoming Punjab Kings. KKR, meanwhile, have retained the same franchise identity since the inaugural IPL season.
Conclusion
The Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings timeline is a story of changing dominance, dramatic finishes and extraordinary performances.
Kolkata Knight Riders have the stronger overall head-to-head record, with 21 wins from 36 meetings compared with Punjab Kings’ 13. The difference has been created largely by KKR’s dominant stretches, especially during the middle years of the IPL.
But the numbers do not tell the whole story. Punjab have produced some of the most remarkable individual results in the fixture. Their 262/2 chase against KKR in 2024 remains the headline performance, while their successful defence of 111 in 2025 demonstrated the other side of their capability.
The rivalry has also produced a memorable IPL final, a two-run thriller, a one-wicket finish, nine-wicket victories and outstanding performances from players such as Gautam Gambhir, Sunil Narine, Wriddhiman Saha and Jonny Bairstow.
From the first meetings in 2008 to the rain-affected 2026 encounter, KKR vs PBKS has repeatedly shown why IPL matchups can change so quickly. Kolkata may own the better historical record, but Punjab have proved more than once that past dominance means little once the two teams step onto the field.
As future IPL seasons add new chapters, the KKR vs PBKS match history will continue to evolve, making this one of the fixtures worth following whenever Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings meet again.
FAQs
1.When did Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings first play each other?
KKR and the Punjab franchise first met in the inaugural IPL season in 2008. Punjab were then known as Kings XI Punjab. Their first season ended with one victory apiece.
2.Who has won more matches between KKR and PBKS?
Kolkata Knight Riders have won more matches. Across 36 meetings, KKR have 21 victories, while Punjab Kings have 13, with two no-results.
3.What is the KKR vs PBKS head-to-head record?
The overall IPL head-to-head record stands at KKR 21 wins, PBKS 13 wins and 2 no-results through the 2026 meeting.
4.What is the highest score in KKR vs PBKS matches?
Punjab Kings hold the highest team score with 262/2 in 2024 at Eden Gardens. They chased KKR’s 261/6 and won by eight wickets.
5.What is KKR’s highest score against PBKS?
KKR’s highest score against Punjab is 261/6, scored at Eden Gardens in 2024. Punjab successfully chased it down.
6.What is the lowest KKR score against PBKS?
KKR’s lowest completed total in the matchup is 95 all out, recorded in the 2025 match at Mullanpur. Punjab won by 16 runs after defending 111.
7.Which player has scored the most runs in KKR vs PBKS matches?
Gautam Gambhir is the leading run scorer in the historical head-to-head, with 492 runs against Punjab.
8.Which player has taken the most wickets in KKR vs PBKS matches?
Sunil Narine leads the wicket charts with 36 wickets against Punjab in historical records.
9.Who has the highest individual score in KKR vs PBKS history?
Wriddhiman Saha holds the record with an unbeaten 115 in the 2014 IPL final.
10.What are Sunil Narine’s best bowling figures against PBKS?
Narine’s best figures are 5/19, recorded against Punjab in 2012.
11.What was KKR’s biggest win against PBKS?
KKR’s biggest victory by runs came in 2010, when they won by 39 runs in Mohali.
12.What was PBKS’s biggest win against KKR?
Punjab’s biggest victory by runs came in 2014, when Kings XI Punjab defeated KKR by 23 runs in Abu Dhabi.
13.Have KKR and PBKS played an IPL final?
Yes. The two teams met in the 2014 IPL final at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. KKR won by three wickets after chasing Punjab’s 199/4.
14.What was the most memorable KKR vs PBKS match?
There are several candidates, but the 2024 meeting at Eden Gardens stands out because Punjab chased 262/2 against a KKR total of 261/6. Jonny Bairstow scored 108 from 48 balls.
15.How many times have KKR and PBKS faced each other in the IPL?
Through the latest meeting in 2026, KKR and PBKS have played 36 IPL matches. KKR have won 21, Punjab 13, and two matches have ended without a result.
