punjab kings vs kolkata knight riders timeline
The Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline is one of the most competitive and entertaining rivalries in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since the league began in 2008, these two teams have delivered nail-biting finishes, record-breaking performances, shocking upsets, and unforgettable moments.
Punjab Kings (PBKS), formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, have often been the unpredictable side—capable of defeating any team on their day. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), backed by a passionate fan base and multiple IPL titles, have been one of the most successful franchises in the league.
In this detailed and SEO-friendly article, we will explore the Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline in a table format, along with match-by-match history, head-to-head records, iconic moments, top players, stats, and how this rivalry has evolved over the years.
Table of Contents
Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Rivalry Overview
The rivalry between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders is built on contrast. Punjab has often relied on explosive batting and young talent, while KKR is known for its balanced squad, strong leadership, and spin bowling dominance.
Over the years, matches between PBKS and KKR have been closely fought, with both teams enjoying phases of dominance. Some seasons saw Punjab shocking Kolkata with massive run chases, while in other years KKR completely outplayed Punjab with clinical performances.
Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline (2008–2024)
Below is the complete timeline in table format, highlighting key matches, results, and memorable moments in the PBKS vs KKR rivalry.
Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline Table
| Season | Match Details | Venue | Winner | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | IPL Match 9 | Mohali | Punjab | Brendon McCullum’s KKR couldn’t stop PBKS chase |
| 2009 | League Match | Durban | Punjab | Punjab chased comfortably |
| 2010 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | KKR dominated with all-round show |
| 2011 | League Match | Mohali | Punjab | PBKS won by 8 wickets |
| 2012 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | Gautam Gambhir’s steady knock |
| 2013 | League Match | Mohali | Punjab | David Miller power-hitting |
| 2014 | League Match | Cuttack | Punjab | Glenn Maxwell’s explosive innings |
| 2014 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | KKR revenge win |
| 2015 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | Andre Russell brilliance |
| 2016 | League Match | Mohali | KKR | Spin attack dominated |
| 2017 | League Match | Kolkata | Punjab | Low-scoring thriller |
| 2018 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | Sunil Narine all-round show |
| 2019 | League Match | Mohali | KKR | Andre Russell match-winning knock |
| 2020 | League Match | Abu Dhabi | Punjab | Super Over victory |
| 2020 | League Match | Sharjah | KKR | KKR chased comfortably |
| 2021 | League Match | Ahmedabad | Punjab | Rahul-Mayank partnership |
| 2022 | League Match | Mumbai | KKR | Umesh Yadav’s bowling spell |
| 2023 | League Match | Mohali | Punjab | Shikhar Dhawan captain’s knock |
| 2024 | League Match | Kolkata | KKR | Dominant KKR win |
Head-to-Head Record: Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders
Overall IPL Head-to-Head Stats
| Stat Category | PBKS | KKR |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 32+ | 32+ |
| Matches Won | ~12 | ~20 |
| Highest Team Score | 214+ | 245+ |
| Lowest Team Score | 67 | 84 |
| Biggest Win (Runs) | PBKS by 24 | KKR by 31 |
KKR clearly leads the Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders head-to-head record, but Punjab has often caused upsets, especially in high-pressure matches.
Early Years of PBKS vs KKR (2008–2012)
During the early IPL seasons, Punjab Kings were a strong unit under players like Yuvraj Singh, Kumar Sangakkara, and Shaun Marsh. In contrast, KKR struggled initially despite having big names.
Punjab dominated several early encounters, winning crucial matches with aggressive batting. However, KKR slowly found stability after Gautam Gambhir took over captaincy in 2011, which changed the rivalry’s balance.
Golden Phase of KKR vs Punjab (2013–2015)
The period from 2013 to 2015 marked a turning point in the Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline.
IPL 2014 – A Season to Remember
- Punjab Kings reached the IPL final.
- Glenn Maxwell terrorized bowling attacks.
- KKR, however, defeated Punjab in the final to win their second IPL title.
This season intensified the rivalry, as Punjab looked unstoppable but fell short against a disciplined KKR side.
Middle Years: Close Battles & Super Overs (2016–2020)
Between 2016 and 2020, matches became extremely competitive.
IPL 2020 Super Over Classic
One of the most iconic moments came in IPL 2020 when Punjab defeated KKR in a dramatic Super Over match.
- KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal starred.
- Mohammed Shami’s death-over bowling changed the game.
This match is often ranked among the best IPL thrillers.
Modern Era: Punjab Kings vs KKR (2021–2024)
In recent seasons, both teams have undergone multiple changes.
Punjab Kings
- Focused on young Indian talent.
- Leadership under KL Rahul (earlier) and Shikhar Dhawan.
- Known for explosive starts but inconsistency.
Kolkata Knight Riders
- Strong leadership with experienced captains.
- Dependable core of all-rounders.
- Spin-heavy bowling attack remains key strength.
KKR has maintained dominance, but Punjab continues to challenge with aggressive gameplay.
Top Run Scorers in PBKS vs KKR Matches
Batting Legends of the Rivalry
| Player | Team | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| KL Rahul | PBKS | 400+ |
| Gautam Gambhir | KKR | 350+ |
| David Miller | PBKS | 300+ |
| Andre Russell | KKR | 280+ |
| Shikhar Dhawan | PBKS | 250+ |
These players have shaped the Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline with memorable innings.
Top Wicket Takers in PBKS vs KKR Matches
| Bowler | Team | Wickets |
|---|---|---|
| Sunil Narine | KKR | 20+ |
| Piyush Chawla | KKR | 15+ |
| Mohammed Shami | PBKS | 14+ |
| Umesh Yadav | KKR | 13+ |
| Arshdeep Singh | PBKS | 12+ |
Bowling has often been the deciding factor in PBKS vs KKR clashes.
Memorable Matches in Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline
IPL 2014 Final
- Venue: Bengaluru
- Winner: KKR
- Highlight: Manish Pandey’s match-winning knock
IPL 2020 Super Over Thriller
- Venue: Abu Dhabi
- Winner: Punjab Kings
- Highlight: Mohammed Shami’s incredible last over
Highest Scoring Encounters
- Multiple 200+ totals
- Power-hitters like Russell and Maxwell dominated
Why PBKS vs KKR Matches Are Special
- Strong fan bases from North India and East India
- Frequent close finishes
- Big players stepping up under pressure
- Tactical battles between captains
The Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline reflects IPL’s unpredictable and entertaining nature.
Strengths & Weaknesses Comparison
Punjab Kings Strengths
- Aggressive top order
- Young Indian pacers
- Fearless approach
Punjab Kings Weaknesses
- Inconsistency
- Middle-order collapses
KKR Strengths
- Strong spin bowling
- Balanced squad
- Match-winning all-rounders
KKR Weaknesses
- Occasional top-order failures
- Dependence on key players
Future of Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders Rivalry
As IPL continues to grow, the Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline will only get richer. With new players, fresh leadership, and evolving strategies, future matches promise even more excitement.
Fans can expect:
- Bigger scores
- More thrillers
- New heroes
- Intense playoff battles
Conclusion
The Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline is a story of competition, resilience, and unforgettable IPL moments. While KKR holds an edge in overall wins, Punjab Kings have never been an easy opponent. From early seasons to modern-day clashes, this rivalry has consistently delivered entertainment and drama.
Whether it’s a Super Over thriller, a record-breaking innings, or a tactical masterclass, PBKS vs KKR matches remain a highlight of every IPL season. As both teams continue to rebuild and evolve, this rivalry is set to shine even brighter in the years ahead.
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