Beyond being a spectacular launchpad for raw talent, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has also carved out some of the most compelling rivalries in franchise cricket. None more so than the clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, the El Clásico of the IPL.
With 41 encounters, CSK have won 20 while MI edge them with 21, a rivalry defined by razor‑thin margins and relentless competitiveness.

But not every rivalry in the IPL earns the “iconic” tag. Some head‑to‑heads are as one‑sided as they come. Here are a few of the most lopsided duels:
1. SRH vs PBKS
The battle between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings has been overwhelmingly tilted in SRH’s favour. Out of 26 matches, SRH have triumphed 18 times, leaving Punjab with just eight wins. That translates to a commanding 69% win rate for SRH compared to 31% for PBKS.
2. MI vs KKR
Mumbai Indians have thoroughly dominated Kolkata Knight Riders. In 37 meetings, MI have won 25 (67.57%), while KKR have managed only 12 victories (32.43%). Their most recent success came on May 20, 2026, at Eden Gardens, where they scraped home by four wickets. Still, MI’s dominance is undeniable.
3. CSK vs KKR
This rivalry has been heavily skewed towards Chennai Super Kings. Out of 32 clashes, CSK have won 21, while KKR have crossed the line just 11 times. Their latest meeting in IPL 2026 followed the familiar script, CSK prevailing by 32 runs. CSK's win percentage stands at an imposing 66%, whereas KKR have won only 34% of these encounters.
4. KKR vs SRH
While KKR struggle against MI and CSK, they boast an enviable record against SRH. In 32 contests, KKR have won 21, giving them a 66% win rate, while SRH have managed only 11 wins (34%). Against Hyderabad, Kolkata have consistently held the upper hand.
5. CSK vs DC
Chennai Super Kings have long dominated Delhi Capitals. Out of 33 encounters, CSK have won 21, while DC have managed 12. That equates to a 66% win rate for CSK and just 34% for DC, underlining the one‑sided nature of this rivalry.
The IPL thrives on rivalries, some balanced, some brutally lopsided. While CSK vs MI remains the league’s crown jewel, duels like SRH vs PBKS or MI vs KKR remind us that dominance can be just as compelling a storyline as competitiveness.



