One Pandya had to win: Krunal relishing RCB's win over MI on Wankhede homecoming
IPL 2026: Krunal Pandya's Wankhede homecoming turned into a statement night as he got the better of brother Hardik. In a high-scoring clash, his control with the ball made the difference for RCB.
IPL 2026: Krunal got the better of his brother Hardik in MI vs RCB. (Photo: PTI)
Krunal Pandya enjoyed a special outing at the Wankhede Stadium as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Mumbai Indians, with the all-rounder getting the better of his brother Hardik Pandya. Reflecting on the moment, Krunal said it was always going to be a case of “one Pandya had to win.”
RCB posted a massive total of 241 and went on to seal an 18-run win, with Krunal delivering a tight spell of 1 for 26 in four overs. On a high-scoring surface, his control through the middle overs proved crucial in slowing down MI’s chase.
IPL 2026, MI vs RCB: HIGHLIGHTS | SCORECARD
“Wankhede has always been close to my heart. I have played here for six years and was lucky enough to win three trophies in that time,” Krunal said at the post-match press conference.
“So it has always been special coming over here, and as I said last year as well, eventually the points were coming home only. One Pandya had to win, and I guess I was the lucky one in that,” he added.
Krunal’s performance stood out in a match dominated by runs. He not only kept things tight but also picked up the key wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, breaking MI’s momentum during a crucial phase.
The contest also had a subplot, with Krunal facing Hardik in what turned into a competitive family battle. While Hardik managed a fighting 40, it was Krunal who had the last word as RCB held on to defend their total.
The foundation for the win was laid by RCB’s batting unit, with Virat Kohli and Phil Salt providing a strong start, before captain Rajat Patidar accelerated with a quickfire fifty.
HOW GOOD HAS KRUNAL BEEN FOR RCB?
Since moving to RCB from Lucknow Super Giants, Krunal has become a reliable figure in their setup.
He played an important role in their title-winning campaign last season, contributing with both bat and ball. In IPL 2025, he picked up 17 wickets in 15 matches and chipped in with useful runs lower down the order.
The current season has seen him continue in a similar role. With five wickets in four matches so far, he has provided balance to the side, especially in the middle overs where control is key.
More than the numbers, it is his ability to step up in big moments that stands out. Against MI at Wankhede, on a ground he knows well, Krunal once again showed why he remains a valuable asset for RCB.
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