The IPL 2025 season has kicked off with a bang, and fans are already witnessing thrilling encounters on the field. While every match in the IPL is exciting, some rivalries carry extra intensity, history, and drama, making them must-watch contests. On-field battles, past encounters, and the hunger for supremacy fuel these matchups.
As IPL 2025 unfolds, here are the top five rivalries that promise to deliver edge-of-the-seat entertainment.
Head-to-Head Record: One of the most balanced contests in IPL history
Why It’s a Rivalry: The two most successful franchises, multiple IPL trophies, and legendary players
Key Players to Watch: Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah (MI) vs. MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK)
This rivalry is often referred to as the ‘El Clasico’ of the IPL, as Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been the two most dominant teams in the tournament’s history. From thrilling last-over finishes to epic final encounters, MI vs. CSK has everything a cricket fan desires.
IPL 2025 Battle to Watch: Can CSK continue their dominance with their new squad, or will MI, under Hardik Pandya’s leadership, reclaim their lost glory?
Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders – A Feisty Clash
Head-to-Head Record: KKR holds a slight edge over RCB
Why It’s a Rivalry: Playoff battles, aggressive gameplay, and high-scoring encounters
Key Players to Watch: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell (RCB) vs. Shreyas Iyer, Sunil Narine (KKR)
RCB vs. KKR has always been an intense battle, dating back to the very first IPL match in 2008, where Brendon McCullum’s iconic 158 set the tone*. Over the years, KKR has had the upper hand in crucial games, including knockout victories.
IPL 2025 Battle to Watch: With RCB aiming for their maiden title and KKR looking to reclaim their dominance, expect fireworks in this contest.
Gujarat Titans vs Rajasthan Royals – The New-Age Rivalry
Head-to-Head Record: Gujarat Titans have dominated this contest so far
Why It’s a Rivalry: IPL 2022 Final, young and aggressive squads, power-hitting battles
Key Players to Watch: Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan (GT) vs. Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson (RR)
Since the Gujarat Titans (GT) made their debut, they have emerged as one of the strongest teams. Their rivalry with the Rajasthan Royals (RR) intensified after the IPL 2022 Final, where GT defeated RR to win their maiden title. With both teams boasting explosive batting and world-class bowlers, this clash has become one of the most anticipated fixtures.
IPL 2025 Battle to Watch: RR will be desperate for revenge, while GT will look to continue their dominance.
Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – The Battle of Underdogs
Head-to-Head Record: A closely contested battle over the years
Why It’s a Rivalry: Tactical gameplay, unpredictable results, and fierce young talent
Key Players to Watch: Rishabh Pant, David Warner (DC) vs Heinrich Klaasen, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (SRH)
DC and SRH might not have the glamour of MI or CSK, but their matches are always high-intensity. Both teams rely on a mix of young talent and experienced players, making their clashes a true test of strategy.
IPL 2025 Battle to Watch: With both teams rebuilding their squads, this battle could shape the mid-season standings.
Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants – The Emerging Rivalry
Head-to-Head Record: Lucknow Super Giants have been dominant
Why It’s a Rivalry: High-scoring games, aggressive batting, and unpredictable results
Key Players to Watch: Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada (PBKS) vs KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis (LSG)
Though a relatively new rivalry, Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have had some of the most entertaining, high-scoring encounters in recent IPL seasons. Their batting-heavy approach ensures that fans witness six-hitting carnage whenever these two teams clash.
IPL 2025 Battle to Watch: Can PBKS finally break their inconsistent streak, or will LSG continue their dominance?
With rivalries heating up, IPL 2025 promises to be one of the most exciting seasons yet. Whether it’s the legacy battles of MI vs. CSK, the aggressive encounters of RCB vs. KKR, or the new-age clashes like GT vs. RR, each match is set to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Which IPL 2025 rivalry are you most excited for? Drop your predictions in the comments!
