Krunal Pandya steps out of Hardik’s shadow with match-winning IPL 2025 campaign

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 concluded on 2 June at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) securing their maiden title after a thrilling six-run win over Punjab Kings. At the heart of this victory was Krunal Pandya, whose all-round brilliance not only sealed the title but also reshaped the public perception of his career.

Long seen as the quieter Pandya brother, Krunal’s performance this season has sparked fresh comparisons with Hardik Pandya — this time with Krunal emerging on top.

A tale of two brothers

Krunal Pandya and Hardik Pandya have both carved out reputations as all-rounders in Indian cricket. Hardik, the younger sibling, quickly rose to fame with his explosive batting and seam bowling. A three-time IPL winner with Mumbai Indians (2017, 2019, 2020) and captain of Gujarat Titans’ victorious 2022 campaign, Hardik has enjoyed the limelight with a strong international career and leadership roles.

Krunal, by contrast, has had a more understated journey. A left-arm spinner and a middle-order stabiliser, he has served India in limited-overs formats and built a consistent IPL career across 130 matches. Yet, despite 79 wickets at an average of 22.03, he has often played second fiddle to Hardik, whose numbers—2,564 runs and 72 wickets in 140 games—have traditionally drawn more media attention.

RCB and revival: Krunal Pandya’s breakout in IPL 2025

Krunal Pandya’s switch to RCB for ₹5.75 crore proved transformative. Under Faf du Plessis’ captaincy, he was entrusted with responsibility and responded with some of the best all-round performances of his career.

His stats speak volumes:

• Matches: 15
• Runs: 109 (highest: 73*, strike rate: 126.74)
• Wickets: 17 (average: 22.29, economy: 8.24, best: 4/45)
• Catches: 6

The 73 not out against Delhi Capitals underlined his batting depth, but it was with the ball that he truly excelled — finishing among the top ten wicket-takers and maintaining one of the best economy rates in the tournament. His effectiveness against sweeping shots — conceding just 65 runs to them — was also noted as among the best for spinners.

Seizing the final: A match-winning spell

The crowning moment came in the final against Punjab Kings. After RCB posted 190, Krunal delivered a spell of 4-0-17-2, dismissing Jonny Bairstow and Liam Livingstone. His line, length, and control stood out—just one overpitched delivery, only one boundary conceded, and clever use of pace and distance.

He was rightly named Player of the Match, becoming the first cricketer in IPL history to win that honour in two finals. This victory also added a fourth IPL title to his cabinet, having previously triumphed with Mumbai Indians.

Post-match, Krunal summed up the significance with a nod to family legacy: “I told Hardik too that the Pandya household will have nine trophies in 11 years.” While likely a rhetorical flourish, it captured the pride of his contribution.

Hardik Pandya’s contrasting campaign

Hardik Pandya, now back with Mumbai Indians as captain, had a steady individual campaign:

• Runs: 224 (strike rate: 163.50, highest: 48*)
• Wickets: 14 (best: 5/36, economy: 9.77)

Yet, MI’s early elimination meant his efforts lacked impact. His captaincy drew criticism in key matches, and the absence of a signature moment like Krunal’s in the final made the comparison inevitable.

Shifting perceptions and future prospects

Krunal Pandya’s performances did not go unnoticed. ESPNcricinfo ranked him among the top ten in several key metrics and dubbed him “an IPL great even if you don’t think he is.” Sportskeeda readers called for his retention, while fans lauded his composure and discipline. Hardik himself tweeted support: “In tears right now,” a gesture that highlighted their bond beyond cricket.

As India prepares for the T20 World Cup, Krunal’s 2025 campaign has likely positioned him as a serious contender for national selection. More importantly, it has altered the narrative: no longer the lesser Pandya, Krunal has stepped into his own.