Krunal Pandya created history in the Indian Premier League by becoming the first player ever to win the Player of the Match award in two separate IPL finals. The all-rounder achieved this rare distinction in the IPL 2025 final, playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Facing Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Krunal played a pivotal role in helping RCB clinch their maiden IPL trophy.
He bowled a superb spell under pressure, taking 2 wickets for just 17 runs in his 4 overs. His intelligent bowling and composure during crunch moments were instrumental in RCB’s six-run victory, etching his name in the annals of IPL greatness.
A Repeat Hero in IPL Finals
Krunal’s recent heroics mirror his earlier performance in the 2017 IPL final, where he represented Mumbai Indians (MI). In that intense encounter against Rising Pune Supergiant, Krunal played a crucial innings of 47 off 38 balls to steer MI to a narrow 1-run win.
That effort had earned him his first Player of the Match award in an IPL final. Now, eight years later, he has repeated the feat—this time with the ball and for a different franchise. His ability to deliver match-winning performances in the biggest games showcases his versatility and temperament as a big-match player.
Cementing His Legacy Among IPL Greats
With this latest triumph, Krunal Pandya joins a very exclusive club, underlining his immense value in the T20 format. His Player of the Match awards in two finals came in completely different roles—once as a finisher with the bat, and now as a game-changing bowler.
This unique achievement emphasizes both his longevity and adaptability. What makes the moment even more special is the family connection—Krunal and his brother Hardik Pandya now have a combined nine IPL trophies between them.
As he celebrated the victory, Krunal’s gesture of calling his brother Hardik reflected the bond they share and their mutual success in India’s most-watched cricket tournament. With this feat, Krunal Pandya has firmly established his legacy as one of the IPL’s greatest contributors and a true match-winner when it matters most.
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