Krunal Pandya Finisher Role Powers RCB to Thrilling Win Over Gujarat Titans
Krunal Pandya finisher role guides RCB to chase 206 against Gujarat Titans with late hitting brilliance after middle order collapse in high scoring IPL 2026 match
- Krunal Pandya finisher role seals RCB win in chase
- Krunal Pandya finisher role shines after RCB collapse
- Krunal Pandya finisher role helps chase 206 target
A tense run chase at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium ended in celebration for Royal Challengers Bengaluru as Krunal Pandya delivered a composed finishing performance to seal victory against Gujarat Titans.
Chasing a daunting target of 206, RCB looked in control early on thanks to a strong partnership between Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal. The duo added quick runs and kept the scoreboard moving, putting pressure back on the opposition after an early wicket.
Kohli played a fluent knock of 81 while Padikkal struck an aggressive 55, giving the impression that the chase would be completed comfortably. However, the match took a sudden turn when both batters were dismissed in quick succession, triggering a collapse in the middle order.
With wickets falling rapidly, RCB found themselves under pressure despite being close to the target. Contributions from Jitesh Sharma and captain Rajat Patidar were brief, adding to the tension among fans in the stands.
It was at this crucial moment that Krunal Pandya stepped in and changed the course of the match. Showing calm under pressure, he took charge of the chase and attacked the bowlers with calculated aggression. Despite Tim David at the other end, Krunal handled most of the finishing responsibility.
He remained unbeaten on 23 off just 12 balls, hitting timely boundaries and a six to bring the equation under control. His late surge ensured that RCB crossed the finish line in 18.5 overs, completing the chase with five wickets in hand.
Earlier, Gujarat Titans had posted a formidable 205 for 3, powered by a brilliant century from Sai Sudharsan. While the total looked challenging, RCB’s strong start and Krunal’s finishing touch ultimately proved decisive in a high scoring contest.
The win highlighted Krunal Pandya’s value as an all rounder who can deliver in pressure situations, once again proving his importance in the RCB lineup.
