"I was like, 'Wooo'" - Krunal Pandya reveals fascinating story of RCB fans during SMAT 2024
Krunal Pandya is set to play for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has already started feeling welcomed by their fans. The Baroda-based all-rounder was roped in for ₹5.75 crore by the franchise at the IPL 2025 auction.
The 33-year-old recently spoke about getting a rousing reception from RCB fans in Indore during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) after the IPL 2025 auction. Saying he was astonished by the loud 'RCB..RCB' chants during his bowling, Krunal said in a video posted by the Bengaluru-based franchise on their YouTube channel (from 0:01):
"When I was playing in Indore after the auction, I was bowling and the entire one side of the stadium where there was crowd, they were changing 'RCB..RCB', and I was like, 'Wooo.'"
Krunal Pandya captained Baroda in the SMAT 2024. The side qualified for the semi-finals where their campaign ended with a six-wicket loss to Mumbai.
"It's been the best fanbase" - Krunal Pandya on RCB supporters
Krunal Pandya also spoke about how RCB have enjoyed unwavering support from their fans throughout the years. He suggested that Bengaluru fans flocking to the stadium isn't just limited to their home matches but they also come out in large numbers in away games.
The 33-year-old said in the same video (from 3:59):
"It's insane the support that they get. Obviously, at home, everyone knows how RCB fans are. When RCB team used to travel for away games as well, you get the same kind of support, which not many franchises get. The fans are very passionate and very loyal. It's been the best fanbase, hands down."
Krunal assured the RCB fans that the team would perform admirably in the forthcoming edition. He added (from 4:31):
"RCB fans, I'll just say one thing, you guys have been the backbone of this team. I can sense it that it will create something very special and magical. So, just keep supporting us and we'll give you a lot of happiness this year."
Krunal Pandya has played 127 matches in the IPL. The crafty spinner has picked up 76 wickets at an economy rate of 7.37 and scored 1,647 runs at a strike rate of 132.82.