Told Hardik that Pandya household would have 9 trophies: Krunal on scripting IPL history

India Today

2 days ago

On a landmark night for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Krunal Pandya emerged not only as a champion but also as a record-setter. The experienced RCB all-rounder became the first cricketer to win the Player of the Match award in two IPL finals, cementing his place in tournament history.As RCB finally ended their 18-year wait for an Indian Premier League title with a hard-fought six-run victory over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad, Krunal revealed a heartfelt exchange with his younger brother, Hardik Pandya.advertisement"I told Hardik that the Pandya household will have nine trophies in 11 years," Krunal said after the match, visibly emotional. "We've both worked incredibly hard, and to contribute on a night like this means the world to me."
Krunal, who previously won the Player of the Match award in the 2017 final for Mumbai Indians, rose to the occasion once more, this time in RCB colours. His spell - 4 overs, 2 for 17 - proved decisive in a tense finale.IPL 2025 Final, RCB vs PBKS: Highlights"When we were playing the first innings, I had this feeling that the slower you bowl, the better it'll be. But you need courage to do that in T20 cricket. I just backed myself and varied my pace. If you bowled quick, it was a good wicket to bat on, but mixing it up made things difficult," he explained. "My strength has always been understanding what the situation demands. Tonight, I knew I had to be brave."advertisementPunjab, chasing 191 for a maiden IPL title, got off to a promising start through Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who added 43 runs in quick time. Arya was dismissed for 24, but Prabhsimran continued to attack until Krunal made the breakthrough. He had the opener caught for 26 before returning to remove Josh Inglis, who was looking dangerous with a 23-ball 39. His dismissal - caught by Liam Livingstone in the deep - marked a turning point in the match.The 34-year-old from Baroda, whose IPL journey began with Mumbai before a fresh chapter with RCB, spoke with gratitude and intent. "I've really enjoyed my time here. From the very first day, I said I wanted to win the title with RCB. That belief never wavered."As Virat Kohli sank to his knees and the stadium erupted in celebration, Krunal Pandya's quiet brilliance stood out as a crucial factor in RCB's long-awaited triumph. And back in Baroda, one suspects, the Pandya family trophy cabinet now tells a story of grit, ambition, and enduring legacy. Stay updated on IPL 2025 with India Today! Get match schedules, team squads, live score, and the latest IPL points table for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Plus, keep track of the top contenders for the IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap. Don't miss a moment! You May Also Like
IN THIS STORY#IPL 2025