Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Krunal Pandya dedicated the team's IPL 2026 title win to the fans, especially those who tragically lost their lives during last year's victory celebrations. The veteran cricketer said that the immense love and support from the fans continue to inspire the franchise.
The IPL 2026 ended with Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) to win their second consecutive title. The victory helped RCB successfully defend the trophy they won last season and marked another major achievement for the franchise after ending their 17-year wait for a maiden IPL title in 2025.
This Title Was Also for Those Who Lost Their Lives - Krunal Pandya
Speaking to Times of India, Krunal Pandya spoke about the strong support RCB received from fans throughout the season. The all-rounder said that the players felt a responsibility to repay that support and also expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy during last year's victory celebrations.
"One hundred per cent. There is no doubt about it. It’s only been two years for me at RCB, but the amount of love I have received from fans everywhere has been incredible. Virat has said it before - for us, it’s like having 14 home games. It’s true. Whether it was Guwahati, Raipur or Ahmedabad, people were supporting RCB."
"The fans are the heartbeat of this team. They waited 18 years to taste success. They are a core part of the team and give us tremendous support. What happened last year was very unfortunate. My condolences to the families. This title was also for those who lost their lives and for the fans."
Whatever You Say About RCB Fans Is Not Enough - Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya spoke about the incredible support Royal Challengers Bengaluru receive from their fans. The all-rounder said that the love for the franchise is overwhelming and extends across all age groups, from elderly supporters to young children.
"Honestly, that’s a question I am also trying to figure out. Whatever you say about RCB fans is not enough. The amount of love is overwhelming. I remember when I got picked by RCB two years ago, I was playing Ranji Trophy in Nashik and elderly people would come up and say, ‘Beta, this time RCB should win.’ Then little kids would say the same thing."
Krunal joined the Bengaluru franchise in 2025 after spending three seasons with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). During the IPL 2026 league stage, RCB enjoyed strong support across multiple venues, attracting large crowds even in away matches at Guwahati, Raipur, and Ahmedabad.
He Is Probably the Number One RCB Fan - Krunal Pandya on His Son's Love for the Franchise
Krunal Pandya shared that Royal Challengers Bengaluru has become a part of his family life. The all-rounder revealed that his four-year-old son is a huge RCB supporter and is completely attached to the team and its players.
"My son is four years old and understands everything. He has been travelling with me for the last two years. He is probably the number one RCB fan. If I want to describe an RCB fan, I tell people to look at my son. He is obsessed with the team and the players."
Krunal made valuable contributions with both bat and ball in IPL 2026. He picked up 14 wickets in 16 matches at an economy rate of 8.41. With the bat, he scored 226 runs at an average of 37.66 and a strike rate of 145.80, his best IPL season since 2018.
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