IPL 2026: One trick at a time, Krunal Pandya shows why skill, not match-ups, matters
Krunal Pandya has stood out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026 by adapting brilliantly in a batter-dominated game. With clever variations, bouncers, and sharp tactics, he has handled all match situations. Despite higher economy, his fearless approach and innovation have impressed, with Dinesh Karthik calling him a “trend-setter” redefining finger-spin.
Krunal now aims for an India comeback.
NEW DELHI: If taking pitch, conditions, dimensions, and match-ups out of the equation is an art, then Krunal Pandya is a Picasso. As the imbalance between bat and ball continues to tilt heavily in favour of the former in IPL 2026, the left-armer has managed to restore some normalcy whenever he has had the ball in hand. With his unique bag of tricks and a street-smart brain, Krunal has stayed one step ahead, one variation at a time.
At a time when teams obsess over matchups, prioritising them over skill, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru don't face that problem with Krunal. Left-hander, no problem. In-form opener, no problem.
Death overs? No problem. He is well-equipped to handle any situation, and the ease with which he has operated in different phases of the game speaks volumes about the calm head he possesses.