Last night, as cricket fans across the country held their breath, one name stood out as the true game-changer for Royal Challengers Bangalore — Krunal Pandya. Amid the firestorm of a high-pressure IPL final, Krunal emerged as the steadfast shield and saviour, single-handedly turning the tide in RCB’s favour and ending their 18-year quest for an IPL trophy.
Before joining RCB, Krunal was no stranger to glory. The all-rounder already had three IPL titles to his name with Mumbai Indians, a testament to his winning mindset. But for RCB, a franchise that had agonisingly missed out on the IPL crown every season, Krunal’s arrival proved transformational. His match-winning performance in the final was not just a display of skill but a statement of intent — champions don’t just play the game; they own the moment.
Krunal’s spell was nothing short of spectacular. Economical to the point of artistry, he bowled four overs for just 17 runs, making him the most frugal bowler on the night. He struck early, removing Prabhsimran Singh, and then delivered the key blow by dismissing Josh Inglis, who looked dangerous and was threatening to swing the match away from RCB. The brilliance of that spell not only stemmed the flow of runs but also shifted momentum decisively.
This wasn’t a one-off. Krunal’s consistency throughout the season was remarkable. He clinched his third Player of the Match award in this IPL — the highest by any RCB player this year. Over 15 matches, he took 17 wickets with an impressive economy rate of 8.23, his best numbers in an IPL season. And if that wasn’t enough, he contributed vital runs with the bat, proving himself a genuine all-round match-winner.
When Virat Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy last night after 18 years, it was a historic moment not just for RCB but for every fan who had waited patiently. But behind that jubilant celebration was Krunal Pandya — the champion who delivered when it mattered most. For RCB fans, he’s not just a player; he’s the reason their dream came true. And in the grand theatre of IPL, Krunal Pandya’s name will forever echo as the man who finally brought the crown home.
