Mumbai: At 34, after featuring for multiple franchises in the Indian Premier League, all-rounder Krunal Pandya added another glorious chapter to his career last season by lifting his fourth IPL title as a player and his first with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The veteran also enjoyed his personal best campaign, delivering impactful performances throughout the season.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘The Krunal Pandya Experience’, Krunal reflected on his journey, his evolution as a cricketer, and the emotional highs of a landmark season, particularly the long-awaited triumph for RCB and their fans.
“I’ve grown, but stayed grounded”
Krunal spoke about his personal growth over the years, crediting his family for keeping him grounded through success and challenges.
“I have changed over a period of time, for the better. As you go through the journey, you learn. A lot of credit goes to my parents and the upbringing they gave me. But as a human being, who I am, has remained the same. I love cricket, still as excited and passionate to play. I have always been a family man. I love my family, kids, and my wife, who has played an integral part. My parents have been my pillars. When you taste success, two things can happen, either you go crazy or it makes you humble. I have taken the second route,” he said.
RCB debut memories
Recounting his debut for RCB against Kolkata Knight Riders, Krunal described the electric atmosphere and the rollercoaster of emotions during the match.
“I was very excited to play my first match. The opening ceremony had just happened. I remember Shah Rukh sir was on stage and the crowd was chanting. I thought, ‘if we win this, it will be fun.’ I gave away 15 runs in my first over, then came back strongly with key wickets including Ajinkya Rahane and Venkatesh Iyer,” he recalled.
High-pressure Wankhede clash vs MI
Krunal also spoke about a memorable contest at the Wankhede Stadium against his former team Mumbai Indians, highlighting key turning points and his match awareness under pressure.
“The atmosphere at Wankhede is always special. We scored around 220, but momentum shifted when Hardik Pandya played a quick cameo. I knew I would have to bowl the last over and backed myself. I executed my plans—bouncers, wide yorkers—and it worked for us,” he said.
Emotional IPL title win for RCB
One of the most emotional parts of the interview came when Krunal spoke about RCB’s long-awaited IPL title win and the moment shared with senior star Virat Kohli and the fans.
“The ones who deserved it the most are Virat Kohli and the RCB fans. Virat has been with RCB since the beginning. Seeing him emotional was special. The love for RCB is incredible, and I said we must win it for the fans. I am glad we delivered. Playing for India is number one for me, but winning for RCB after 18 years is one of my top moments,” he said.
Match-winning knock in Delhi
Krunal also reflected on his unbeaten 73-run innings against Delhi Capitals, calling it one of his most challenging yet satisfying performances, where he anchored the innings under pressure after early wickets.
From emotional victories to personal milestones, Krunal Pandya’s season with RCB marked a defining chapter in his IPL journey—one that combined resilience, leadership, and unforgettable moments for the franchise and its passionate supporters.
