The Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline is one of the most fascinating rivalries in the Indian Premier League (IPL), showcasing dramatic clashes, unforgettable performances, and contrasting cricketing philosophies. Since the Gujarat Titans’ debut in 2022, these two teams have met multiple times on the grand stage, producing close finishes, individual brilliance, and intense tactical battles. In this article, we’ll explore every GT vs KKR encounter in deep detail, chart their timeline in a table format, highlight key performers, analyze strategies, and provide insight into what this rivalry means for fans and the IPL’s larger narrative.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders Timeline
The rivalry between the Gujarat Titans (GT) and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is a compelling chapter in IPL history that combines the emergence of a powerful new franchise with the legacy of one of the league’s most celebrated teams. The Gujarat Titans burst onto the IPL scene in 2022 and defied expectations by winning the title in their debut season—an extraordinary achievement that cemented their position as serious competitors right from the start. Conversely, the Kolkata Knight Riders have been a part of the IPL since its inception, known for their bold batting, diverse bowling attack, and an ability to win big games across different seasons. KKR has lifted the IPL trophy multiple times and has consistently been among the league’s competitive sides.
Over time, the Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline has become a narrative of contrasting styles—GT’s calm, calculated dominance versus KKR’s flair, explosive finishes, and unpredictability. The timeline of their encounters not only shows match outcomes but also offers insight into evolving strategies, standout performers, and defining moments that have shaped this head-to-head rivalry. Below, you’ll find a richly detailed timeline of every GT vs KKR clash from their inaugural face-off to the most recent completed encounter.
Timeline: GT vs KKR Matches (Detailed Table)
| Date | Venue | Winner | Margin | Key Performers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 23, 2022 | Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai | Gujarat Titans | 8 runs | GT defended total; effective spells from bowlers and crucial lower-order batting |
| April 9, 2023 | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad | Kolkata Knight Riders | 3 wickets | Rinku Singh’s last-over fireworks; Rashid Khan key in bowling |
| April 29, 2023 | Eden Gardens, Kolkata | Gujarat Titans | 7 wickets | GT’s top order chases target with ease |
| May 13, 2024 | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad | No Result | — | Match abandoned due to rain |
| April 21, 2025 | Eden Gardens, Kolkata | Gujarat Titans | 39 runs | Shubman Gill’s 90, Sai Sudharsan’s 52; strong bowling unit performance |
This timeline encapsulates all official IPL meetings between these two franchises as of the 2025 season. In total, they have played five matches against each other—three were won by GT, one by KKR, and one was abandoned without a result due to rain.
Head-to-Head Record Overview
| Matches Played | GT Wins | KKR Wins | No Result | Win % GT | Win % KKR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 60% | 20% |
Since GT’s entry into the IPL, these two sides have developed a competitive rivalry. Gujarat Titans hold the upper hand with a 60% success rate, winning more matches and appearing consistently strong in head-to-head contests. In contrast, Kolkata Knight Riders have managed only a single victory in this fixture.
Breakdown of Each GT vs KKR Encounter
1. April 23, 2022 – GT vs KKR (IPL 2022)
The very first clash between Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders took place at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai during the 2022 IPL season. Gujarat Titans posted a competitive total and successfully defended it to win the game by 8 runs. While the match was not a high-scoring affair, GT’s bowlers applied consistent pressure and prevented KKR from gaining momentum in their chase. This inaugural win marked the start of the GT vs KKR timeline, setting the stage for future high-quality contests between the two teams.
2. April 9, 2023 – GT vs KKR (IPL 2023)
One of the most memorable matches in this rivalry occurred during the 2023 IPL season at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In a thrilling encounter, Kolkata Knight Riders chased down the target in the final over, securing a 3-wicket victory over GT. A standout moment was Rinku Singh’s incredible finish, including five consecutive sixes in the final over, which turned the game in KKR’s favor. This victory remains KKR’s only win against GT in the history of their rivalry.
3. April 29, 2023 – GT vs KKR (IPL 2023)
In a rematch later that season, the Gujarat Titans showcased why they were IPL champions in their debut year. Held at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, GT chased down the target with seven wickets in hand, displaying a clinical batting performance. The top order’s dominance ensured GT secured a convincing win and reinforced their strength as a consistent T20 unit capable of both setting and chasing targets with ease.
4. May 13, 2024 – GT vs KKR (IPL 2024)
The GT vs KKR match scheduled during the 2024 IPL season at the Narendra Modi Stadium was unfortunately abandoned due to rain with no play possible. While the weather denied fans a potentially exciting clash between these rivals, such washouts are part and parcel of league cricket and can significantly impact points tables and momentum.
5. April 21, 2025 – GT vs KKR (IPL 2025)
The most recent meeting between Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders took place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. In this fixture, GT put on a commanding performance, posting 198/3 in their 20 overs—a total built on strong innings from Shubman Gill (90 runs) and Sai Sudharsan (52 runs). Although KKR produced a fightback, they fell short, ending with 159/8. Gujarat Titans sealed a 39-run win, showcasing their strength in both batting and bowling departments. This match highlighted Gujarat Titans’ all-round capability and continued dominance in the head-to-head record.
Top Performers in GT vs KKR Rivalry
Highest Run-Scorers & Standout Performances
- Shubman Gill – 90 off 55 balls (April 21, 2025): Anchored Gujarat Titans’ total against KKR.
- Sai Sudharsan – 52 off 36 balls (April 21, 2025): Complemented Gill in a crucial partnership, helping GT post a challenging total.
- Rinku Singh – Last-over heroics (April 9, 2023): Contributed significantly to KKR’s only win in the rivalry.
Individual Performance Table
| Player | Performance | Match Date | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shubman Gill | 90 (55) | April 21, 2025 | Anchored GT’s total and led dominant performance |
| Sai Sudharsan | 52 (36) | April 21, 2025 | Strengthened GT’s batting effort |
| Rinku Singh | Last-over heroics | April 9, 2023 | Played a crucial role in KKR’s rare win |
Memorable Moments
- Inaugural Clash Thriller (2022): GT defended a modest total with tactical bowling and disciplined execution, winning by 8 runs.
- Rinku Singh’s Explosive Finish (2023): One of the most iconic last-over performances in IPL history, showcasing IPL’s unpredictability.
- Dominance at Eden Gardens (2025): GT’s decisive win marked by strong top-order batting and disciplined bowling against KKR’s home side.
Strategic Insights: Teams’ Strengths & Weaknesses
Gujarat Titans (GT)
Strengths:
- Strong batting depth with consistent top-order contributions.
- Balanced bowling attack with effective pace and spin.
- Calm and tactical approach in pressure situations.
Weaknesses:
- Occasional middle-order fragility.
- Over-reliance on key performers in high-pressure matches.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Strengths:
- Explosive finishers and big-hitting ability.
- Flexible batting order capable of acceleration.
- Experience in high-stakes games and playoffs.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent against structured bowling attacks like GT’s.
- Reliance on individual brilliance rather than consistent team performance.
Why This Rivalry Matters in the IPL
The Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline exemplifies what makes the IPL so captivating: thrilling matches, evolving strategies, and standout individual brilliance. While GT currently holds an advantage in head-to-head history, KKR’s potential for explosive comebacks ensures that every future encounter remains unpredictable and exciting.
Upcoming Match: IPL 2025
According to the official IPL 2025 schedule, GT and KKR have one confirmed encounter:
| Date | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| April 21, 2025 | Eden Gardens, Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
This highly anticipated clash will be an exciting chapter in the GT vs KKR rivalry. GT will aim to maintain dominance, while KKR will look for redemption. Key matchups include GT’s top-order versus KKR’s strike bowlers, KKR’s finishers against GT’s disciplined death-over strategy, and captaincy decisions that could influence the match outcome.
Conclusion
The Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders timeline reflects a compelling rivalry that has unfolded over five IPL seasons. Despite the relatively small number of matches, each encounter has delivered drama, excitement, and narrative-defining moments. With three wins for GT, one for KKR, and one no result, GT currently has the edge. However, KKR’s explosive potential ensures that future clashes will remain thrilling and unpredictable. Fans can expect more intense competition, memorable performances, and strategic contests that keep the IPL engaging season after season.
