Krunal Pandya finished the 2026 Indian Premier League with five career IPL trophies, back-to-back titles with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and a bowling style that few expected from a left-arm orthodox spinner.
In 16 matches this season, Pandya scored 226 runs at an average of 37.67 with a strike rate of 145.81 and claimed 14 wickets at an economy of 8.42, according to a Times of India interview. In a format where 200-plus totals have become routine, that economy rate stands out.
The key to his success has been two unorthodox deliveries: a spinner's bouncer and a low side-arm slinger. Both weapons allowed him to challenge left-handed batters in ways that left-arm finger spinners traditionally have not been able to do. He has bowled more bouncers than any other bowler since the start of the 2025 IPL season, including elite pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
When asked how far in advance he decides to use these surprise deliveries, Pandya was direct. "It's very instinctive. I don't plan. When I'm at the top of my run-up, I've realised that it is important to narrow down my focus. Because accuracy is an important part of this sport. And then, it's all very instinctive. Nothing is pre-planned," he told TOI.
His bouncers clock between 105 and 120 kilometers per hour, fast for a spinner but still well below standard pace bowling. He won the man of the match award in the 2025 final and has been central to RCB's consecutive championships.
Pandya was also clear about why he made the changes in the first place. "It wasn't about being unique or funny," he said. "It was about breaking the norm. You have to evolve to have longevity."
The 35-year-old said he hopes to push his bouncer speed to 125 kmph next season and has not given up on an Indian national team recall.
