Krunal Pandya could soon make a dramatic return to the Indian T20 squad after a gap of five years. If the seasoned all-rounder finds his name in the upcoming squad, it will not come as a major surprise to cricket enthusiasts. The elder brother of star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, Krunal has played a pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru securing back-to-back IPL titles over the past two seasons, fueling intense speculation about his international recall.
Having last appeared in a T20 International for India against Sri Lanka back in 2021, Krunal has caught the selectors' attention through stellar all-round displays in the 2025 and 2026 IPL editions. According to media reports, the team management might consider him as a left-arm spin all-rounder option in place of Axar Patel, whose recent performances in the shortest format have failed to make a significant impact.
The Search for a Left-Arm Spin Option
During the recent T20 series against England and Ireland, the Indian team management heavily experimented with left-arm spin bowling options. Axar Patel was given opportunities across all seven matches, but his returns fell short of expectations. In four T20 Internationals against England, Axar managed to pick up only two wickets, while securing just two scalps in two matches against Ireland. Consequently, the team management is exploring fresh alternatives for the left-arm spinner role, bringing Krunal Pandya back into active contention.
Exceptional IPL Record and Vast Experience
Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026, Krunal bagged 14 wickets with his clever bowling variations. Apart from his bowling utility, his ability to score crucial runs lower down the order sets him apart from competing candidates. Krunal brings immense experience to the table, having accumulated 3,243 runs and 179 wickets in his overall T20 career. Furthermore, he is a five-time IPL champion, having won the trophy thrice with Mumbai Industries before being part of the title-defending squad during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic maiden triumph.
