NEW DELHI: Krunal Pandya reflected on his bruising battle against Mumbai Indians with an emotional Instagram post after powering Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a dramatic last-ball victory in IPL 2026. The all-rounder shared a picture of a massive scar sustained during his match-winning knock in Raipur on Sunday night, captioning it: "Some scars are proof that it was worth fighting for."
Krunal's Heroics Under Pressure
Krunal played a sensational innings of 73 runs off 46 balls, rescuing RCB from a precarious 39/3 during their chase of 167. The defending champions were in deep trouble before Krunal forged crucial partnerships with Jacob Bethell and Jitesh Sharma to revive the innings. Despite suffering severe cramps that affected his movement, he continued to take on the bowlers, smashing five sixes and four boundaries on a challenging surface.
"I Love Tough Situations"
After the match, Krunal admitted he thrives under pressure. "I obviously love tough situations, and I always prepare and look forward to those," he said at the post-match presentation. "I obviously wanted to finish the game, but I was not able to do it. The shot that Bhuvi played was the shot of the match." He also revealed the extent of his cramps, which started in his calf and moved to his glutes and back. "I don't usually bat so long," he added.
Emotional Reunion with Mumbai Indians
Krunal, who spent six seasons with MI alongside his brother Hardik Pandya, spoke emotionally about facing his former franchise. He praised MI batting coach Kieron Pollard, calling him his "big brother." "Polly is my big brother. I had my best six years at MI. Kieron Pollard and Pandya brothers were the engine room," he said. Former South Africa wicketkeeper Mark Boucher described Krunal as a "street fighter," noting that the all-rounder refused to give up despite barely being able to stand.
RCB eventually sealed a dramatic two-wicket victory courtesy of a late six from Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The result lifted RCB to the top of the IPL standings while knocking MI out of the playoff race.
