IPL 2025: Krunal Pandya’s excels in all departments for RCB’s win

RCB on Top of IPL Table

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) moved to the top of the 2025 Indian Premier League standings following a victory over the Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday, April 27th. An outstanding all-round performance from Krunal Pandya was central to RCB's success, as he contributed with the ball before playing and a match-winning innings.

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Delhi Capitals were put on Check

After opting to field first, RCB's bowlers restricted Delhi Capitals to 162 for 8. While Abishek Porel provided a brisk start (28 off 11), the RCB spinner attack, controlled the middle order effectively.  Krunal Pandya (2/25) and Suyash Sharma were economical, making it difficult for DC batters. Though KL Rahul (41) and Tristan Stubbs (34*) contributed quite a decent batting, but DC struggled for consistent momentum. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3/33) and Josh Hazlewood (2/36) finished strongly, ensuring a reachable total.

It was not easy for Royal Challengers

RCB's chase of 163 encountered significant early setbacks. Captain Axar Patel bowled effectively with the new ball for DC, claiming two quick wickets, including debutant Jacob Bethell and Devdutt Padikkal. A good piece of fielding resulted in Rajat Patidar being run out soon after, leaving RCB in a difficult position at 26 for 3 within the first four overs.

Krunal and Kohli Lead Superb Fightback

With a critical situation, Krunal Pandya joined Virat Kohli at the crease, and the pair made a good recovery. Initially, they focused on consolidation, and at the halfway stage, the required rate was climbing. Krunal Pandya then shifted gears dramatically, after reaching 17 off 21 balls, he unleashed 56 runs off just 26 deliveries. He finished unbeaten on a superb 73. Virat Kohli played the anchor role effectively, compiling his sixth half-century of the season (51 off 47) before falling late in the innings. Their partnership added a crucial 119 runs for the fourth wicket.

Following Kohli's dismissal with 18 runs required, Tim David ensured there were no further apprehensions, striking boundaries for the victory with nine balls remaining. The win moved Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the IPL points table.