Krunal Pandya: Spin Masterclass Puts RCB Ahead in PBKS Clash
Krunal Pandya once again showcased why he remains one of the most underrated tactical spinners in the IPL. In Match 37 of IPL 2025, playing against Punjab Kings, the RCB all-rounder struck twice during the Powerplay to derail PBKS’s flying start.
In just 3 overs, he returned figures of 2/14, dismissing both openers—Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh—and delivering a tight economy rate of 4.66.
Early Breakthrough: Dismissing Priyansh Arya
PBKS had started positively before Krunal was introduced into the attack in the 5th over. His first wicket came in the form of Priyansh Arya (caught for 9 runs):
- Delivery: 96 kph stock ball, angled slightly across
- Length: Just short, tempting a slog sweep
- Result: A mistimed hit that landed in the hands of the short mid-wicket fielder
- Score at fall: 42/1 (4.2 overs)
Krunal’s subtle change of angle and length forced the error, breaking PBKS’s rhythm.
Game-Turning Moment: Prabhsimran Singh Falls
As fielding restrictions ended, Krunal returned in the 7th over. His very first ball saw the dismissal of Prabhsimran Singh (scored 32 off 20):
- Delivery: On a length, angled into middle
- Shot Attempted: Big slog across the line
- Execution: Mishit to long-on, taken by Tim David with precision
- Score at fall: 62/2 (6.1 overs)
This wicket turned the momentum sharply in RCB’s favor as PBKS lost both their openers in a span of 12 deliveries.
Krunal Pandya’s Bowling Summary – IPL 2025 Match 37
| Overs | Maidens | Runs | Wickets | Economy | Key Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 0 | 14 | 2 | 4.66 | Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh |
What Made Krunal’s Spell So Impactful?
- Smart Angles: Consistently angled deliveries away from the arc
- Pace Variation: Subtle changes between 88–96 kph made shot selection tricky
- Reading the Situation: Targeted PBKS’s in-form openers before they could dominate
His spell gave RCB breathing space, limiting PBKS’s run rate in a typically high-scoring venue like Mullanpur.
RCB’s Bowling Tactics Benefit from Krunal’s Control
Krunal Pandya’s spell allowed other bowlers like Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma to attack more freely. With two wickets in the Powerplay, RCB had the luxury of setting attacking fields and containing PBKS through the middle overs.
What This Means for RCB Going Forward
- Reliability: Krunal has now taken 7 wickets in IPL 2025, proving to be RCB’s go-to spinner
- Flexibility: He can bowl both in the Powerplay and middle overs
- Match Impact: Helped restrict PBKS to under-par runs in the first 10 overs
RCB’s tactical decision to hold Krunal for key overs against aggressive top orders continues to pay dividends.
Disclaimer
This article is part of Hindustan Herald’s IPL 2025 Player Spotlight series. Data and match events are sourced from official IPL statistics and verified broadcasters.
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