Krunal Pandya IPL Team [Source: @MIPaltanFamily, @CricLazyJonhs/x.com]
Krunal Pandya is one of the most versatile all-rounders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) who is famous for his aggressive left-handed batting and effective left-arm spin bowling. Over the years, he has proven himself to be a valuable asset in the IPL with with quick-fire knocks down the order or with economical bowling spells in the middle overs.
Krunal Pandya’s IPL Teams
Krunal Pandya has played for multiple IPL teams throughout his career and each phase has added something unique to his journey. He started his IPL career in 2016 when Mumbai Indians bought him for INR 2 crore.
Mumbai Indians retained him until 2021 and he was one of their key contributors during his tenure. In 2022, the Lucknow Super Giants picked him up for INR 8.25 crore, recognizing his ability to deliver in crunch situations.
He was an integral part of LSG's middle order and played an essential role in their campaigns. However, ahead of IPL 2025, Krunal moved to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the auction for INR 5.75 crore.
Year | Team | Key Highlights |
---|---|---|
2016 | Mumbai Indians | Made IPL debut, played impactful knocks in lower order |
2017 | Mumbai Indians | Player of the Match in IPL final, helped MI win the title |
2018-2021 | Mumbai Indians | Retained by MI for INR 8.8 crore, continued all-round contributions and won two titles in 2019 & 2020 |
2022-2024 | Lucknow Super Giants | Bought for INR 8.25 crore, key all-rounder for LSG |
2025 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Bought for INR 5.75 crore, fresh start with RCB |
Krunal Pandya’s Role in His IPL Teams
Krunal Pandya has been an indispensable all-rounder for every team he has played for in the IPL. In Mumbai Indians, he was primarily used as a middle-order batsman and a left-arm spinner who could choke runs during the middle overs.
His ability to play quick cameos made him an excellent finisher when the top order failed to deliver. One of his most memorable performances came in the IPL 2017 final against Rising Pune Supergiant, where he played a crucial knock of 47 runs to take MI to a fighting total, ultimately helping them secure the title.
When he moved to Lucknow Super Giants in 2022, his role slightly changed. He batted higher up the order in some matches, taking on the responsibility of anchoring the innings while also bowling his full quota of overs.
Now, with RCB, it will be interesting to see how he fits into their setup, especially considering their need for an experienced all-rounder who can balance the side.
Krunal Pandya’s Impact on His IPL Teams
- Leadership and Team Contribution: Krunal has not only contributed with bat and ball but has also been a leader on the field. His experience and aggression have added an extra edge to the teams he has played for. With Mumbai Indians, he was a part of a dominant core group, winning multiple titles. When he moved to Lucknow Super Giants, he took on a more senior role, guiding younger players and leading by example.
- Adaptability on IPL Pitches: One of Krunal’s biggest strengths is his adaptability. Whether playing on the slow pitches or batting-friendly tracks, or the balanced conditions, he has adjusted his game accordingly.
- Performance in High-Pressure Matches: Krunal has delivered under pressure multiple times in his IPL career. His standout performance came in the 2017 IPL final, where he scored a match-winning 47 runs against Rising Pune Supergiant, helping Mumbai Indians clinch the title. His ability to handle pressure and deliver in crunch moments has earned him a reputation as a big-match player.
Krunal Pandya and the IPL Auction
IPL Auction History for Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya’s IPL journey has been fascinating, especially in terms of his auction history. He was first bought by Mumbai Indians in the 2016 auction for INR 2 crore, which proved to be a steal considering his performances.
His breakthrough season in 2017 led MI to retain him for subsequent years, and by 2018, he was one of their key players. However, in the 2022 IPL Mega Auction, Mumbai Indians decided not to retain him, and he was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants for INR 8.25 crore.
Year | Team | Salary |
---|---|---|
2016-2017 | Mumbai Indians | INR 2 crore |
2018-2021 | Mumbai Indians | INR 8.8 crore |
2022-2024 | Lucknow Super Giants | INR 8.25 crore |
2025-Present | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | INR 5.75 crore |
Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 Auction Status
Ahead of IPL 2025, Krunal Pandya was back in the auction after not being retained by LSG. This time, Royal Challengers Bangalore secured his services for INR 5.75 crore. RCB’s decision to buy him was influenced by their need for a reliable all-rounder who could provide balance in both departments.
FAQs About Krunal Pandya IPL Team
Q.1. Which team is Krunal Pandya in IPL 2025?
Answer: Krunal Pandya will play for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025. He was bought by the franchise for INR 5.75 crore at the auction.
Q.2. Was Krunal Pandya in Pushpa 2?
Answer: No, Krunal Pandya was not in Pushpa 2. A viral photo on social media created confusion but the person in the image was actually Tarak Ponnappa, an actor who featured in the movie.
Q.3. Who bought Krunal Pandya?
Answer: In the IPL 2025 auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) bought Krunal Pandya for INR 5.75 crore after he was released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Q.4. Who is Hardik Pandya's brother?
Answer: Hardik Pandya’s brother is Krunal Pandya, an all-rounder who has played for Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and now Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL.
Q.5. What is the price of Krunal Pandya in IPL?
Answer: Krunal Pandya was bought for INR 5.75 crore by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2025 auction.