Krunal Pandya, an all-rounder for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, says the squad is more settled this season, with players having a better understanding of their duties. He owes this change to the stability and confidence they received following their first IPL victory in 2025.
The left-arm spinner also gave captain Rajat Patidar credit for fostering a composed and orderly team environment. At the same time, Pandya reaffirmed that his major personal objective is still to return to the Indian national team. Pandya was selected Player of the Match for his outstanding statistics of 2/17 in four overs during the final, which was a pivotal part of RCB’s 2025 title-winning campaign.
“This year there is a much calmer atmosphere. Last year was about new team dynamics and getting to know each other. Now many players understand their roles and each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Rajat has done a pretty amazing job captaining such a big franchise like RCB. The way he led the team last year was very special,” Pandya said in an RCB podcast.
Pandya also discussed how he handles pressure in high-stakes situations, stressing the value of maintaining composure and having faith in one’s abilities. He also emphasized the importance of teamwork, emphasizing in particular his on-field knowledge of wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma, which he feels is essential to carrying out plans well.
“When I get into big occasions, I feel that if God has got you here, then there is a reason behind it. Sometimes I think these moments are made for me. I feel the pressure but focus on staying calm and present to do what is required,” said Pandya.
“A lot of credit goes to Jitesh behind the wickets. I feel very secure and trust him completely because wherever I bowl, he will grab the ball,” he added.
Pandya praised veteran Virat Kohli for his unwavering dedication and effort while considering RCB’s fervent supporters and heritage. With a six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the season opener, RCB has also gotten off to a great start in their IPL 2026 campaign.
“Virat is a classic example. You can see that hunger and passion in how he sees the game and wants victory. If he had been born in any other generation, he would still be one of the greats. He is not competing with anyone else,” Pandya concluded.
