Krunal Pandya continues to play a vital role in RCB’s IPL 2026 title defense, making huge contributions with both bat and ball. In his second season with RCB, the veteran all-rounder has emerged as one of the team’s key performers while also drawing inspiration from teammate Virat Kohli’s unparalleled intensity and work ethic.Krunal’s heroic performance against Mumbai Indians on May 10 propelled RCB to the top of the table and knocked MI out of playoff contention. Battling severe stomach cramps and apparent discomfort, Krunal smashed a stunning 46-ball 73 to lead Bengaluru to victory.The versatile player had yet another fruitful IPL season and recently completed 100 IPL wickets for RCB against Lucknow Supergiants. Apart from his contributions on the field, Krunal also provides balance and leadership to the team.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Superstar’ show, Krunal opened up about how much he admires Kohli’s preparation and passion for the game.“I have learned a lot by watching Virat Kohli, the way he prepares for games and the intensity he brings to every training session. I have played with and against him for India when he was captain. Now I am lucky enough to share the dressing room with him again,” Krunal said.“I realize that his hunger is still unbelievable. Those eyes don’t lie. Every net session there is the same intensity, the same desire to improve. That’s what makes him Virat. I believe that if he plays in any era, he will still be one of the greatest players. I feel Virat has a lot more to offer the sport,” he added.Virat Kohli is currently playing in a very different IPL 2026 season for the defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). While he started the season with a dominant, high-hitting performance, he has hit a rare slump of late, recording back-to-back ducks for only the second time in his IPL career. Kohli scored 379 runs in 11 games, maintaining his most aggressive strike rate of the season so far.
