Table of Contents
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continued their flawless away run in the IPL 2025, thanks to a masterclass from Krunal Pandya. His all-round performance turned the tables against Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Earlier this season, DC had stunned RCB in Bengaluru. But this time, it was RCB’s turn to strike back — and how!
Tough Pitch, Tougher Players
Unlike the usual high-scoring thrillers at Delhi, this pitch offered plenty of help to spinners. Scoring against spin was challenging, forcing batters to plan carefully.
- DC scored only 50 off 48 balls against spinners.
- RCB managed 57 off 55 balls.
Thus, it became clear that attacking pace was the key to winning.
Early Struggles for RCB
Chasing 163, RCB were in deep trouble at 26/3.
Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya, however, built a crucial partnership.
- Kohli anchored one end, scoring a steady 51* off 47 balls.
- Pandya started slow but soon exploded.
At halfway, RCB had only 64 runs. But once the pacers came back, Pandya shifted gears spectacularly.
Krunal Pandya’s Game-Changing Knock
Pandya was unstoppable once he found his rhythm.
- Against pacers: 44 runs off 24 balls (SR: 183.33)
- Against spinners: 29 runs off 23 balls (SR: 126.08)
He smashed sixes and fours almost at will. His 38-ball half-century included stunning shots off Chameera, Mukesh, Kuldeep, and Axar.
Ultimately, his 73* off 47 balls took RCB home with 9 balls to spare.
Bowling Contributions
Pandya wasn’t just brilliant with the bat.
He also bowled economically, returning figures of 1/28.
Suyash Sharma and the pacers supported well, keeping DC to a manageable total.
Words from the Camp
Mo Bobat (RCB Director of Cricket) praised Pandya, highlighting RCB’s focus on batting depth at the auction.
“Once we got past the midway point, we were confident. Krunal did a brilliant job.”
Virat Kohli echoed the sentiment, calling it a “top win” on a “difficult surface” and lauding Pandya’s match-winning effort.
RCB’s Winning Formula
- Strong middle-order partnerships
- Batting depth with players like Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, and Romario Shepherd
- Clever use of spinners
- Perfect acceleration at the right time
RCB are now looking unstoppable, especially in away games.
Conclusion
With this memorable win, Krunal Pandya reminded everyone of his value. His timing, skill, and composure made all the difference against Delhi Capitals.
RCB fans will hope he continues this form in the upcoming matches!
