Krunal Pandya, the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), expressed that the pressure of being defending champions in IPL 2026 drives him to perform at his best. Following a standout season in IPL 2025, where he scored 109 runs and took 17 wickets, including a crucial 2 for 17 in the final, Pandya aims to replicate his success. He holds the unique distinction of being the first player in IPL history to win the Player of the Match award in two finals (2017 and 2025). Currently, RCB sits in third place in the IPL 2026 points table and will face Lucknow Super Giants at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium. Pandya acknowledged that while pressure is inherent in high-stakes games, his experience helps him guide his teammates. He believes that preparation and life lessons are key to excelling in challenging situations, stating, 'If I am working hard, it's not for an easy game.'