Krunal Pandya’s impact has been a defining force behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s latest march to glory, with the all-rounder producing a standout all-format contribution across the season. In IPL 2025 and IPL 2026, Pandya delivered 226 runs in 16 matches and also picked up 14 wickets, underlining why he has become such a dependable match-winner for RCB.
Krunal Pandya’s landmark title tally
With the IPL 2026 triumph, Pandya has now collected his fifth championship in the league. The milestone also places him among the competition’s most decorated performers given the balance he offers with the bat and ball.
- Pandya finished the campaign with 226 runs from 16 matches.
- He also contributed with the ball, taking 14 wickets.
- This IPL 2026 success marked his fifth title in the tournament.
- He previously won three IPL crowns with the Mumbai Indians: 2017, 2019, and 2020.
- He has now added two more titles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 2025 and 2026.
- His RCB titles have come consecutively, with back-to-back celebrations in 2025 and 2026.
Celebration moment: Kohli’s playful reminder
During RCB’s victory celebration, Pandya was spotted holding up five fingers to represent his five IPL triumphs. Virat Kohli noticed the gesture and responded with a humorous correction, reminding him that he now represents RCB.
The light-hearted exchange turned into a memorable laugh for those nearby, with Pandya and Bhuvneshwar (Bhuvi) unable to stop chuckling after the moment. The episode quickly became a talking point, including another clip showing how Jitesh appeared to be searching for Kohli because he wanted only him to sit beside the trophy.
Pandya on winning: motivation, team success, and gratitude
On Monday, Pandya shared his excitement after securing his fifth IPL title, describing the achievement as “incredibly satisfying.” He also reflected on how his journey has been shaped by both individual performances and, more importantly, tournament-winning moments.
- Pandya said winning trophies has always been his biggest motivation in cricket.
- He added that lifting a championship brings a feeling unlike anything else.
- He noted that while individual performances and match wins bring happiness, winning an entire tournament is “truly special.”
He further explained that throughout his career he has consistently focused on achieving success at team level, and credited the opportunity to be part of squads that have delivered major results. Pandya highlighted the significance of winning a fifth IPL trophy within 11 years, calling it deeply gratifying.
Along with that, he expressed gratitude for the journey and the chances that have come his way as he continues to build his legacy with RCB. In addition to being a key contributor to RCB’s title-winning run, he also played an important part in the team’s ability to defend the trophy in the 2026 season.
