Krunal Pandya scored 73 runs off 46 balls to lead Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a last-ball victory against the Mumbai Indians [1], [2].
The performance is significant because it kept RCB in playoff contention while simultaneously knocking the Mumbai Indians out of the tournament race [1], [4].
The match took place in Raipur, where RCB faced a target of 167 runs [3]. Pandya played through significant physical distress, battling severe cramps and a bruised abdominal scar throughout his innings [1], [2]. Following the victory, Pandya posted a photograph of the abdominal scar on social media, which quickly went viral among cricket fans [1], [3].
Pandya's contribution turned the chase around in a high-stakes encounter that remained undecided until the final delivery [1]. The all-rounder's ability to maintain his scoring rate despite the injury proved decisive in the narrow win [2].
This match serves as a critical juncture in the 2026 season. By securing the win, RCB maintains its hopes for a postseason berth, a result that comes at the direct expense of the Mumbai Indians' campaign [1], [4].
“Krunal Pandya scored 73 runs off 46 balls to lead Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a last-ball victory.”
This result shifts the momentum of the IPL 2026 season by eliminating a powerhouse franchise and prolonging the playoff hopes of RCB. The viral nature of Pandya's injury photo underscores the physical toll of the T20 format and elevates his standing as a clutch performer for the Bengaluru side.
