Krunal Pandya: From Struggles to Cricket Stardom

Krunal Pandya: A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Cricket Stardom

Krunal Pandya has become a household name in Indian cricket, known for his all-round performance, consistency, and resilience on and off the field. From his early struggles to becoming a key figure in domestic and international cricket, Krunal's journey is a testament to hard work and determination. His recent move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 auction and the controversies surrounding his leadership in the Ranji Trophy have only heightened public interest in his career. This article delves into Krunal Pandya's inspiring rise, his cricketing milestones, and the challenges that have shaped him into the player he is today.

Early Life and Background

Krunal Himanshu Pandya was born on March 24, 1991, in Baroda, Gujarat. Coming from a modest background, Krunal’s family faced financial challenges that made his and his younger brother Hardik Pandya’s journey into cricket even more remarkable. Their father, Himanshu Pandya, ran a small car finance business, which eventually shut down, forcing the family into difficult times.

In a recent revelation, Nita Ambani, the owner of Mumbai Indians, recalled how Krunal and Hardik survived on Maggi noodles for nearly three years due to financial constraints. Despite these hardships, their father supported their passion for cricket, enrolling them in Kiran More’s cricket academy in Vadodara. Krunal's early exposure to competitive cricket at the academy helped him develop the skills and mindset required to excel at the highest level.

Domestic Cricket Success

Krunal Pandya made his debut in domestic cricket for Baroda in 2016. His all-round ability as a left-handed batsman and left-arm orthodox spinner quickly made him a valuable asset for the team. His performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy highlighted his potential.

In the 2016–17 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Krunal scored 366 runs at a strike rate of 182.57 and took 11 wickets, helping Baroda reach the final. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the Mumbai Indians (MI) squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2016.

IPL Breakthrough and Consistency

Krunal Pandya’s IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in 2016 was the turning point in his career. His match-winning performance in the 2017 IPL final against Rising Pune Supergiant, where he scored 47 crucial runs, helped Mumbai secure their third title. Krunal was named the Man of the Match for his efforts.

Over the years, Krunal became a key all-rounder for Mumbai Indians, contributing with both bat and ball. His ability to anchor the innings and provide breakthroughs with his left-arm spin made him a vital cog in MI’s success. Between 2016 and 2021, Krunal played a pivotal role in helping Mumbai secure multiple IPL titles.

In the 2022 IPL mega auction, Krunal was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for ₹8.25 crore. He captained LSG for several matches, showcasing his leadership qualities. However, ahead of the 2025 IPL season, Krunal made headlines when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) acquired him for ₹5.75 crore. His transfer to RCB marks a new chapter in his IPL journey.

International Cricket Career

Krunal Pandya’s consistent IPL performances earned him a call-up to the Indian national team. He made his T20I debut against the West Indies in November 2018, where he impressed with both bat and ball. Krunal’s ability to handle pressure and deliver in crunch situations made him a reliable option in India’s middle order.

One of his most memorable international performances came during the ODI series against England in 2021. Krunal scored the fastest fifty by a debutant in ODI cricket, reaching his half-century in just 26 balls. His emotional reaction after the innings, dedicating the knock to his late father, touched the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.

Despite not being a regular fixture in the Indian squad, Krunal has proven his mettle whenever given an opportunity. His all-round capabilities make him a valuable backup option in India’s white-ball setup.

Ranji Trophy Controversy

Krunal Pandya recently found himself at the center of controversy during the 2025 Ranji Trophy season. As the captain of Baroda, he led the team in an Elite Group A match against Jammu and Kashmir. However, accusations of ‘pitch fixing’ surfaced when J&K officials alleged that the pitch was deliberately altered to favor Baroda.

The allegations sparked media attention, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly initiating an inquiry. While Krunal has not made any official statement regarding the controversy, the issue remains under investigation. His leadership abilities will be under scrutiny as the situation unfolds.

Challenges and Resilience

Krunal Pandya’s journey has not been without its challenges. From financial hardships in his early days to injuries and form slumps, Krunal has faced his share of setbacks. However, his ability to bounce back stronger each time has been the hallmark of his career.

After the death of his father in early 2021, Krunal went through a difficult phase both personally and professionally. His emotional half-century against England was a tribute to his father’s unwavering support and belief in his abilities.

Despite facing criticism for his on-field performances and leadership decisions, Krunal has maintained his composure and focused on improving his game. His recent move to RCB provides him with a fresh opportunity to cement his legacy in the IPL.

A Promising Future Ahead

At 34, Krunal Pandya still has several years of cricket left in him. His move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru gives him a platform to showcase his experience and leadership in a new environment. With RCB aiming to secure their first IPL title, Krunal’s all-round skills could play a crucial role in their campaign.

Krunal’s ability to adapt to different roles, contribute in high-pressure situations, and mentor younger players makes him a valuable asset for any team. His calm demeanor and tactical acumen could help RCB strengthen their middle order and bowling attack.

As Krunal Pandya gears up for the upcoming IPL season and looks to reclaim his spot in the Indian squad, cricket fans are eager to see how he navigates this new chapter in his career. His journey from financial struggles to becoming a cricketing star is a story of perseverance, resilience, and determination—a true inspiration for aspiring cricketers.

Conclusion

Krunal Pandya’s rise from humble beginnings to cricket stardom reflects the power of hard work and dedication. His achievements in the IPL, consistent performances in domestic cricket, and impactful outings for India have established him as a versatile all-rounder. Despite recent controversies and challenges, Krunal’s journey remains an inspiring tale of overcoming odds and making a mark in the competitive world of cricket. As he embarks on a new chapter with RCB, fans will be watching closely to see how Krunal continues to evolve and contribute to the game.