How have the IPL rivalries changed post the big auction?
14 seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have passed and there have been some big rivalries that have been built. However, ahead of the 2022 edition of the blockbuster Indian T20 league, there was a mega auction which has shuffled most of the players from one franchise to the other. Here we look at some of the hottest IPL rivalries and how the IPL auction for the 15th season has affected that.
Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians
The two mega clubs have met in the finals four times, with MS Dhoni-led CSK winning only once
One of the fiercest rivalries in the IPL between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is regarded as the El Classico of the IPL. MI vs CSK is arguably the best and the hottest rivalry in the history of the Indian T20 league.
These two are the most successful sides and share nine IPL titles (MI – 5, CSK – 4) between them. Moreover, they have played four finals against each other (2010, 2013, 2015, 2019) apart from five other playoff encounters. Last season, they faced off against each other twice, with each side winning a game.
TIP Kieron Pollard loves batting against CSK, while Dwayne Bravo invariably picks wickets while playing against MI. Skipper MS Dhoni also has a good record against the five-time IPL champions.
Read more about CSK vs MI Head-to-Head History
Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals
MI and DC don’t have the most evident rivalry in the IPL
One of the most underrated rivalries of recent times in the IPL has been between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals (DC). It makes this list mostly because of the rivalry between the two cities. Mumbai and Delhi are the two biggest cities in India.
While MI have clinched a record five IPL titles, DC are yet to taste success in the cash-rich tournament. DC reached their maiden final in the 2020 edition but unfortunately, lost the game to MI in Dubai.
The head-to-head record is almost neck-and-neck with MI leading with 16 wins and Delhi boasting of 14 wins. Moreover, both of these teams have been very consistent in the last few years.
TIP Kagiso Rabada against Rohit Sharma with the new-ball was one of the contests to watch out for. However, now with Rabada moving to Punjab, it’ll be a difference story and it could be Anrich Nortje up against the MI skipper.
Read more about MI vs DC Head-to-Head History
Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is the South Indian derby
The two states have a significant history and hence, it is one of the most hyped contests in the IPL. It also puts two of the biggest names in Indian cricket against each other – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.
However, things are set to change this season as Kohli has stepped down as captain and RCB will see a new captain come to the fore. The most interesting about this rivalry is yet to come… Meanwhile, CSK are well ahead in the head to head record and lead the rivalry 18-9.
Read more about CSK vs RCB Head-to-Head History
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Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Mumbai Indians
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma make the RCB-MI rivalry is a pretty renowned one
Two superstars of Indian cricket square off when RCB collide against MI. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are modern-day greats and the RCB-MI rivalry is a pretty renowned one.
MI have historically been ahead but RCB have fared well in the last few seasons. The five-time IPL champions lead the head to head record 19-12.
AB de Villiers vs Lasith Malinga was a battle to watch out for, but both cricketers are now retired. Yuzvendra Chahal has a good record against MI, but he has now moved to Rajasthan Royals (RR).
TIP Keep an eye on Jasprit Bumrah as he has performed well against RCB over the years.
Read more about RCB vs MI Head-to-Head History
Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore
PBKS and RCB have been pretty similar over the years
Both Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have had the big players over the seasons of the league, but they have failed to deliver in crunch moments. The two sides are yet to register an IPL title win.
In addition, the players in the Punjab side have historically been either former RCB players or even those from Karnataka. Hence, the rivalry against RCB developed in the years. Punjab lead with a win-loss record of 15-13.
KL Rahul just piled on the runs every time he faced RCB, but he has now moved to Lucknow. AB de Villiers liked batting against Punjab, but he has now retired. Yuzvendra Chahal has a terrific record against PBKS. However, he has been bought by Rajasthan Royals (RR). Surprises are yet to come here…
