Krunal Pandya is not your conventional left-arm orthodox spinner. He is a bowler who continuously adds new dimensions to his bowling in the evolving format of T20 cricket. He has focused on discovering new ways to stay relevant in a format that constantly pushes bowlers to their limits.
Back-to-Back IPL Titles with RCB
Fresh off a sensational back-to-back IPL titles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and his overall fifth IPL trophy, the senior all-rounder discussed his successful season with Times of India in an exclusive interview. In an impressive season with all-round performances, across 16 matches, he scored 226 runs at an average of 37.67 with a strike rate of 145.81 and claimed 14 wickets at an economy of 8.42.
In an era of evolving batting and scores of 200-plus routinely, an economy of 8.42 is quite a remarkable achievement. A massive reason behind his sustained success has been his continuous tactical evolution.
Unorthodox Variations: Bouncer and Side-Arm Delivery
This season, Krunal introduced unorthodox variations, most notably a quick spinner's bouncer and a low side-arm slinger delivery. Both weapons helped him challenge traditional match-ups and break the long-standing norm that left-arm finger spinners cannot effectively bowl to left-handed batters.
When asked exactly how late in his delivery stride he decides to unleash these surprise variations, Krunal revealed that the execution relies entirely on his instincts rather than pre-match planning. "It’s very instinctive. I don’t plan. When I’m at the top of my run-up, I’ve realised that it is important to narrow down my focus. Because accuracy is an important part of this sport. And then, it’s all very instinctive. Nothing is pre-planned," Krunal told TOI.
Krunal, who bowls deliveries clocking between 105 kph and 120 kph, has bowled more bouncers than any other bowler since the start of the 2025 IPL season. He has bowled more bouncers than elite pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj while also claiming the Man of the Match award in the 2025 final, with RCB securing their first IPL trophy of their two consecutive crowns.
Breaking the Norm for Longevity
"It wasn't about being unique or funny," Krunal explained regarding his reinvented bowling style. "It was about breaking the norm. You have to evolve to have longevity."
With five IPL trophies in his cabinet and a desire to bowl his surprise bouncers at a speed of 125 kmph next year, the 35-year-old remains hopeful of an Indian national team recall.
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