RCB All IPL Final Match List – From Heartbreaks to Glory (2009–2025)
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has always been one of the most followed and loved franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Known for their star-studded line-ups, passionate fan base, and electrifying performances, RCB has remained a major attraction every season. From legends like AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Daniel Vettori to modern stars like Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, and Faf du Plessis — RCB has always entertained cricket fans with their fearless cricket.
However, for a long time, there was one thing missing in their cabinet — the IPL trophy. Despite having some of the biggest names in world cricket, RCB struggled to go past the final hurdle multiple times. But after years of heartbreaks, their persistence finally paid off when they won their maiden IPL title in 2025.
Here’s a detailed look at all the IPL finals that Royal Challengers Bangalore have played from 2009 to 2025, their performances, key moments, and how they finally lifted the cup.
RCB in IPL Finals: Complete List
| Season | Opponent | Venue | Date | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Deccan Chargers | Johannesburg | May 24, 2009 | Runners-up |
| 2011 | Chennai Super Kings | Chennai | May 28, 2011 | Runners-up |
| 2016 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | Bengaluru | May 29, 2016 | Runners-up |
| 2025 | Punjab Kings | Ahmedabad | June 3, 2025 | Champions |
1. IPL 2009 Final – RCB vs Deccan Chargers (Runners-up)
The 2009 IPL season was played in South Africa due to the Indian general elections. RCB made their first appearance in an IPL final that year. After finishing third in the league stage, they defeated Chennai Super Kings in the semi-final to set up a clash with the Deccan Chargers in Johannesburg.
Batting first, Deccan Chargers posted 143/6, with Adam Gilchrist and Herschelle Gibbs contributing crucial runs. RCB skipper Anil Kumble bowled a sensational spell of 4/16, keeping the Chargers’ total modest.
In reply, RCB were in control at one stage, thanks to Roelof van der Merwe’s quickfire 32 off 21 balls. However, the middle order collapsed, and the team could manage only 137/9, losing by 6 runs. It was a heartbreaking loss, but RCB’s spirited campaign had made them one of the most promising teams in the league.
2. IPL 2011 Final – RCB vs Chennai Super Kings (Runners-up)
After two seasons, RCB reached their second final in 2011 under the captaincy of Daniel Vettori. They were the table-toppers during the group stage with nine wins. However, they lost Qualifier 1 to Chennai Super Kings but bounced back in Qualifier 2 against Mumbai Indians to reach the final once again.
The final was played in Chennai on May 28, 2011. Batting first, CSK posted a mammoth total of 205/5. The opening pair of Murali Vijay (95 off 52) and Michael Hussey (63 off 45) added a record 159-run stand for the first wicket.
RCB’s chase got off to a poor start. The team lost early wickets, and despite Saurabh Tiwary’s unbeaten 42 off 34 balls, they could manage only 147/8, falling short by 58 runs. It was another painful defeat for RCB, but the team showed consistency by reaching their second final in three years.
3. IPL 2016 Final – RCB vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Runners-up)
The 2016 IPL season is often remembered as one of RCB’s most entertaining campaigns. Led by Virat Kohli, who had a record-breaking season with 973 runs, RCB stormed into their third IPL final. They defeated Gujarat Lions in Qualifier 1 to reach the summit clash, where they faced Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Bengaluru on May 29, 2016.
Batting first, SRH captain David Warner led from the front with 69 off 38 balls, and contributions from Yuvraj Singh (38) and Ben Cutting (29)* took SRH to 208/7.
In response, RCB’s opening pair — Chris Gayle (76 off 38) and Virat Kohli (54 off 35) — gave them a dream start, adding 114 runs in 10.3 overs. However, after Gayle’s dismissal, RCB’s middle order collapsed dramatically. Despite a promising chase, they ended at 200/7, losing by 8 runs.
It was another near-miss for RCB, who once again finished as runners-up despite being the most dominant team in that season.
4. IPL 2025 Final – RCB vs Punjab Kings (Champions)
After three heartbreaks, RCB finally turned their dream into reality in 2025. Under the leadership of Faf du Plessis, they had a strong campaign with consistent performances from Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, and Mohammed Siraj.
RCB faced Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the final at Ahmedabad on June 3, 2025. Batting first, RCB posted a strong total of 189/6, with Kohli scoring a composed 72 off 47 balls and Maxwell providing the finishing touch with 41 off 18 balls.
Punjab Kings started well, but RCB’s bowlers — led by Siraj and Lockie Ferguson — kept taking wickets at crucial moments. PBKS were bowled out for 172, handing RCB a 17-run victory and their first-ever IPL title.
The long wait of 17 years finally ended, and RCB fans around the world celebrated one of the most emotional victories in IPL history.
RCB’s Journey in IPL – From Hope to Glory
Over the years, RCB’s journey has been a rollercoaster. They’ve had iconic moments — from Chris Gayle’s 175*, AB de Villiers’ magical innings, to Virat Kohli’s record-breaking 2016 season. Despite the criticism for not winning early titles, RCB always maintained an exciting brand of cricket.
Their maiden championship win in 2025 was not just about lifting the trophy — it was a reward for years of loyalty, hard work, and belief. It also marked the rise of new heroes while celebrating the legacy of veterans like Kohli and ABD who built the franchise’s foundation.
Conclusion
Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL journey reflects the true essence of sports — perseverance, faith, and eventual success. From the heartbreaks of 2009, 2011, and 2016 to the ultimate redemption in 2025, RCB’s story is one that inspires every cricket fan.
With a balanced team and strong leadership, RCB now aims to build on their success and add more titles in the coming seasons. For the fans, the chant “Ee Sala Cup Namde” finally came true — and it’s just the beginning of a new era in Bangalore’s cricketing history.
Read more: ICC Trophies Won by South Africa – A Journey of Perseverance and Triumph
Tags: RCB IPL final list, Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL finals, RCB all IPL finals, RCB IPL champions 2025, RCB vs Deccan Chargers final, RCB vs CSK final, RCB vs SRH final, RCB vs PBKS 2025 final, RCB IPL record, RCB history in IPL
