Introduction
The IPL 2025 final Player of the Match award went to Krunal Pandya, whose sensational bowling spell of 4-0-17-2 powered Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their maiden IPL title on June 3, 2025, at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. In a nail-biting RCB vs PBKS final, RCB defended 190/9 to restrict Punjab Kings (PBKS) to 184/7, winning by 6 runs. Krunal’s dismissals of Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis turned the game, earning him accolades as the only player to win Player of the Match in two IPL finals.
For RCB fans, this was a moment of pure joy after an 18-year wait, and for fantasy cricket players, Krunal was a jackpot pick. His performance, lauded by ESPNcricinfo and fans on X, was the heartbeat of RCB’s triumph. What made Krunal’s spell your favorite moment? Dive into our detailed breakdown of his heroics, fantasy insights, and more on IPL Star!
IPL 2025 Final: Setting the Stage for Krunal Pandya’s Heroics
The IPL 2025 final at Narendra Modi Stadium was a high-stakes clash, with 132,000 fans creating an electric atmosphere. RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, finished third in the points table and dominated Qualifier 1 against Mumbai Indians. IPL 2025 final Player of the Match PBKS, captained by Shreyas Iyer, boasted a fiery batting line-up with Shashank Singh and Josh Inglis, backed by Arshdeep Singh’s bowling. PBKS won the toss and opted to bowl, expecting early swing on a pitch known for high scores (avg. 1st innings: 219/6). RCB’s 190/9 set a challenging target, and Krunal Pandya’s all-round skills were pivotal in turning the tide. Broadcast on Star Sports and JioHotstar, the match gripped millions worldwide.
| Toss Details | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | Punjab Kings |
| Decision | Opted to bowl |
| Impact | RCB’s total proved defendable |
Krunal Pandya’s Match-Winning Performance in IPL 2025 Final
Bowling Masterclass
Krunal Pandya’s 4-0-17-2 was the defining act of the IPL 2025 final. His economical spell, with an economy rate of 4.25, choked PBKS’s chase of 191, especially in the middle overs (7-15), where they scored just 67/3 compared to RCB’s 77/3. IPL 2025 final Player of the Match Krunal’s tight lines and clever variations made him RCB’s trump card, earning him the Player of the Match award and cementing his legacy as a clutch performer.
“I told RCB I like to win trophies, and this spell was for our fans,” Krunal said post-match (paraphrased).
Key Wickets
Krunal’s dismissals of Prabhsimran Singh (26 off 22, 8.3 overs) and Josh Inglis (39 off 23, 12.1 overs) were game-changers. Prabhsimran was caught at backward point, halting PBKS’s momentum at 72/2, while Inglis’s lofted cover drive was snaffled by Liam Livingstone, leaving PBKS at 98/4. These wickets, praised by IndiaTimes as “match-turning,” shifted the pressure onto PBKS’s middle order.
Tactical Brilliance
Krunal’s tactical nous shone through his varied lengths and trajectory, as noted by ESPNcricinfo, particularly against left-handers like Inglis. His mean bouncer and slow deliveries disrupted PBKS’s rhythm, making him RCB’s go-to bowler in the high-pressure final. For fantasy cricket players, Krunal’s wickets and economy (est. ~80 points) were a goldmine.
| Krunal Pandya’s Bowling in IPL 2025 Final | Details |
|---|---|
| Overs | 4 |
| Maidens | 0 |
| Runs Conceded | 17 |
| Wickets | 2 (Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis) |
| Economy Rate | 4.25 |
| Fantasy Points (Est.) | ~80 |
Fantasy Cricket Tip: Krunal’s ability to bowl tight overs and pick wickets made him a top captaincy choice in Dream11 for the final.
Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 Season: A Fantasy Cricket Gem
Season Overview
IPL 2025 final Player of the Match Krunal Pandya had a stellar IPL 2025, picking up 17 wickets in 15 matches at an average of 22.29 and an economy of 8.23, with his best figures of 4/45. His lower-order cameos, estimated at ~150 runs, added value. Bought by RCB for INR 5.75 crore, Krunal strengthened their spin attack and middle order, as noted by uccricket.live. His four IPL titles (three with Mumbai Indians) highlight his big-match temperament.
Fantasy Cricket Impact
Krunal was a fantasy cricket favorite, delivering consistent points with wickets, economy, and occasional batting. His final performance (2 wickets, 4 off 5) earned high points, rewarding players who backed him as a differential. His versatility made him a must-have in leagues like Dream11, especially in high-stakes matches.
| Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 Stats | Season | Final |
|---|---|---|
| Matches | 15 | 1 |
| Wickets | 17 | 2 |
| Bowling Average | 22.29 | 8.50 |
| Economy Rate | 8.23 | 4.25 |
| Runs Scored (Est.) | ~150 | 4 off 5 |
| Fantasy Points (Est.) | ~600 (season) | ~80 |
Fantasy Cricket Tip: All-rounders like Krunal, who contribute with both bat and ball, are ideal picks for fantasy finals due to their dual-point potential.
Krunal Pandya vs. Other Stars in IPL 2025 Final
Shashank Singh’s Batting Blitz
Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61* off 30 (6 sixes, 3 fours) nearly stole the IPL 2025 final for PBKS. His late surge, scoring 22 in the final over, earned ~90 fantasy points, making him a top differential pick. Despite his heroics, Krunal’s wickets had a greater match impact, as PBKS fell 6 runs short.
Virat Kohli’s Anchor Role
Virat Kohli’s 43 off 35 anchored RCB’s 190/9, setting a defendable total. His 657 runs in IPL 2025 (3rd overall) underscored his consistency, but his final knock (~50 fantasy points) was overshadowed by Krunal’s bowling heroics.
Arshdeep Singh’s Bowling Effort
Arshdeep Singh’s 3-40, including Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya in the final over, kept PBKS in the game. His 21 wickets in IPL 2025 (5th overall) earned ~60 fantasy points in the final, but Krunal’s tighter spell proved decisive.
| Player Comparison in IPL 2025 Final | Role | Performance | Fantasy Points (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Krunal Pandya | All-Rounder | 2-17, 4 off 5 | ~80 |
| Shashank Singh | Batter | 61* off 30 | ~90 |
| Virat Kohli | Batter | 43 off 35 | ~50 |
| Arshdeep Singh | Bowler | 3-40 | ~60 |
Fantasy Cricket Tip: Shashank Singh was a high-reward pick for fantasy players who trusted his finishing ability, but Krunal’s all-round impact made him the safer choice.
Fantasy Cricket Insights: Why Krunal Pandya Shone in IPL 2025 Final
Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 final Player of the Match performance was a fantasy cricket masterclass. His 2 wickets and 4.25 economy earned ~80 points, rewarding players who selected him as captain or vice-captain. His season-long consistency (17 wickets, ~150 runs) made him a reliable pick, unlike riskier differentials like Shashank Singh. For finals, all-rounders like Krunal, who bowl full overs and bat in the lower order, are ideal due to their dual contributions.
| Top Fantasy Scorers in IPL 2025 Final | Player | Points (Est.) | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shashank Singh | ~90 | Unbeaten 61* | |
| Krunal Pandya | ~80 | 2 wickets, economy | |
| Arshdeep Singh | ~60 | 3 wickets | |
| Virat Kohli | ~50 | 43 runs |
Fantasy Cricket Tip: Join IPL Star’s fantasy community to discuss picks and strategies for IPL 2026!
Expert Analysis and Fan Frenzy for Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 Final Performance
Expert Analysis
ESPNcricinfo called Krunal’s 2-17 “one of the greatest spells” in IPL finals, praising his control against left-handers like Inglis. Cricbuzz highlighted his tactical use of bouncers and slow deliveries, which disrupted PBKS’s chase. His second Player of the Match award in an IPL final, a first in IPL history, was lauded by Latestly.
Fan Reactions
Fans on X erupted with praise, with #RCBChampions2025 and “Krunal Pandya” trending globally. Posts like “Clutch to the max!” reflected his impact, as noted on Reddit. At Narendra Modi Stadium, fans chanted “Krunal! Krunal!” as RCB lifted the trophy, per The Hindu.
“Krunal was our game-changer, a true champion,” said Virat Kohli (paraphrased).
Awards and Records in IPL 2025
| Award | Recipient | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Player of the Match | Krunal Pandya (RCB) | 4-0-17-2, 4 off 5 |
| Player of the Tournament | Sai Sudharsan (GT) | 759 runs, AVG: 54.21 |
| Orange Cap | Sai Sudharsan (GT) | 759 runs, 15 matches |
| Purple Cap | Prasidh Krishna (GT) | 25 wickets, AVG: 19.52 |
| Emerging Player | Sai Sudharsan (GT) | 759 runs, AVG: 54.21 |
- Records:
Krunal Pandya’s Legacy in IPL 2025 Final
Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 final Player of the Match performance etched his name in RCB history, leading their 6-run win over PBKS to claim a historic title. His 2-17, four IPL titles, and fantasy cricket value make him a T20 legend. Will Krunal dominate IPL 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments, subscribe to IPL Star, and explore our related articles below!
FAQs IPL 2025 Final Player of the Match
1. Who was the IPL 2025 final Player of the Match?
Krunal Pandya was named the IPL 2025 final Player of the Match for his match-defining 4-0-17-2, dismissing Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis, leading RCB to a 6-run win over PBKS.
2. How did Krunal Pandya perform in the IPL 2025 final?
Krunal Pandya bowled 4 overs for 17 runs, taking 2 wickets (Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis) at an economy of 4.25, earning the IPL 2025 final Player of the Match award for RCB’s title win.
3. Why was Krunal Pandya chosen as Player of the Match in IPL 2025 final?
IPL 2025 final Player of the Match Krunal’s 2-17 in the IPL 2025 final choked PBKS’s chase, dismissing key batsmen and maintaining a low economy. His impact in the middle overs secured RCB’s 6-run victory, per ESPNcricinfo.
4. What were Krunal Pandya’s key wickets in the IPL 2025 final?
Krunal dismissed Prabhsimran Singh (26) and Josh Inglis (39) in the IPL 2025 final, breaking PBKS’s momentum at 72/2 and 98/4, pivotal to RCB’s defense of 190/9.
5. How did Krunal Pandya impact fantasy cricket in the IPL 2025 final?
Krunal’s 2 wickets and 4.25 economy in the IPL 2025 final earned ~80 fantasy points, making him a top pick for Dream11 players who chose him as captain or vice-captain.
6. What were the highlights of the RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025 final?
The RCB vs PBKS final saw Krunal Pandya’s 2-17, Shashank Singh’s 61*, and Virat Kohli’s 43. RCB’s 6-run win, driven by Krunal’s spell, marked their first IPL title.
7. How did Krunal Pandya perform throughout IPL 2025?
Krunal took 17 wickets in 15 matches (AVG: 22.29, ECO: 8.23) and scored ~150 runs in IPL 2025, making him a fantasy cricket gem and key to RCB’s title, per uccricket.live.
8. What records did Krunal Pandya set in the IPL 2025 final?
Krunal became the first player to win two Player of the Match awards in IPL finals, with his 4.25 economy in the IPL 2025 final being the best since 2020, per Latestly.
9. How did fans react to Krunal Pandya’s IPL 2025 final performance?
Fans on X trended #RCBChampions2025, hailing Krunal’s 2-17. Stadium chants of “Krunal! Krunal!” echoed RCB’s joy, as reported by The Hindu, celebrating the RCB IPL champions.
10. Why was Krunal Pandya a fantasy cricket star in IPL 2025?
Krunal’s all-round contributions (17 wickets, ~150 runs) and 2-17 in the IPL 2025 final made him a top fantasy pick, earning consistent points for wickets and economy.