Krunal Pandya Shines as RCB Defeats Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025

Krunal Pandya's Stellar Performance

In a thrilling match on April 28, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a victory against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL 2025, thanks to the outstanding performance of left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya. Following his match-winning display, Pandya acknowledged the presence of formidable hitters in the RCB lineup, including Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, and Romario Shepherd, who can dismantle any bowling attack in this season's tournament.

Krunal was named Player of the Match for his remarkable all-round contribution in match 46. He scored an impressive 73 runs off 47 balls, boasting a strike rate of 155.32, which included five fours and four sixes. With the ball, he took one wicket while conceding 28 runs over four overs.

Reflecting on his performance, Pandya expressed satisfaction with the results of his hard work. He noted, "It's always rewarding to see your efforts pay off. My role was clear; if we lost early wickets, I needed to step in and build a partnership. With power hitters like David, Jitesh, and Shepherd, we can tackle any bowling. I’m grateful I fulfilled my role, especially with Virat at the other end, who supported me through the tough start."

The 34-year-old also discussed his bowling strategy, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead of the batsmen. He mentioned, "I’ve been focusing on my bowling variations and understanding the strengths of the batsmen to gain an advantage. My batting is improving as well, and I want to keep the batters guessing with my bowling arsenal."

In the match recap, RCB continued their strong performance in IPL 2025, achieving their seventh win with a six-wicket triumph over DC, which placed them at the top of the points table. RCB chased down a target of 163 runs, despite a rocky start where they lost three wickets for just 26 runs. Debutant Jacob Bethell scored 12 runs, while Devdutt Padikkal was dismissed for a duck, and captain Rajat Patidar was run out for 6.

However, a pivotal partnership of 119 runs between Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya stabilized the innings. Kohli contributed a steady 51 runs off 47 balls, while Pandya's unbeaten 73 from 47 deliveries, featuring five fours and four sixes, was crucial. The duo helped RCB reach 100 runs in just 13.3 overs, maintaining the required run rate.

After Kohli's dismissal by Dushmantha Chameera in the 17.5 overs, Tim David joined Pandya and made a quick impact, scoring 19 runs off just five balls to secure the win for RCB, who reached their target in 18.3 overs.