As the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) heads toward its climax, one statistic stands out and demands recognition—Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have now qualified for the playoffs five times in six seasons this decade. It is a testament to their consistent performance, smart team-building, and an evolved mindset that has allowed them to maintain a strong presence in one of the most competitive T20 leagues in the world.
Since the dawn of the 2020s, the IPL has witnessed fierce battles, unpredictable twists, and a shift in dominance among franchises. However, RCB has managed to be a constant figure in the top four. Despite not winning a title yet in this period, their consistent qualification reflects a side that has matured over time. Their ability to stay in contention year after year is now being recognized as a success story in itself.
After enduring years of criticism for being underachievers, especially with a star-studded lineup led previously by Virat Kohli, RCB in the 2020s have shown a shift in strategy. The franchise made key changes in management, team composition, and tactics. They focused on strengthening their bowling attack, investing in all-rounders, and building a well-rounded squad rather than relying solely on marquee players.
From 2020 to 2025, RCB have featured in the playoffs in every season except one. In these five appearances, they have shown flashes of brilliance and played some of the most memorable matches. While the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy has remained elusive, the team’s ability to consistently make the final four underlines their stature as one of the strongest sides of this decade.
Comparatively, Gujarat Titans (GT), who debuted in 2022, have already made a huge impact. They have now qualified for the playoffs in three consecutive seasons—2022, 2023, and 2025. They even clinched the title in their debut season and finished as runners-up the following year. Their rapid rise and ability to sustain pressure has made them the new powerhouses in the league. However, it is RCB’s who top the chart when it comes to playoff qualifications in the 2020s so far.
RCB’s ability to remain a dominant force despite transitions in leadership, team core, and evolving tactics shows how the franchise has grown. They are no longer viewed as a team that crumbles under pressure or depends solely on individual brilliance. Instead, RCB has become a side with depth, resilience, and a fighting spirit that has enabled them to remain relevant and threatening throughout multiple campaigns.
While qualification is only one part of the challenge, doing it consistently over several seasons is no small feat, especially in a tournament as competitive as the IPL. RCB’s fans, often among the most passionate in the league, have waited long for the elusive trophy. But with this level of consistency and a balanced team that continues to compete hard, a title could be within reach.
As the decade continues, RCB’s five playoff appearances in six years stand as a strong reminder of the franchise’s resurgence. They are no longer the nearly-men of the past—they are strong contenders every season, and perhaps, finally on the cusp of ending their long wait for glory.