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Krunal Pandya epitomizes the spirit of modern cricket and is genuine all-rounder in every sense, he combines power-packed performances with the perfect balance of aggression, intensity, and passion. Whether it’s his animated celebrations, his fierce competitiveness, or the sheer energy he brings to the game, Krunal ensures he leaves a lasting impact. His ability to seamlessly switch roles from being a finisher with the bat to a game-changer with the ball has cemented his reputation as one of the most valuable utility players in Indian cricket.
Krunal Pandya’s evolution as an IPL star over the years
Over the years, Krunal’s versatility has made him one of the most sought-after names at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions. His ability to smash crucial runs in the lower middle order, coupled with his knack for bowling tight, restrictive spells with his left-arm orthodox spin, makes him a rare asset in the T20 format. Season after season, his performances have ensured that franchises remain keen to secure his services, leading to an understandable curiosity among cricket enthusiasts regarding his evolving price tag.
In the IPL 2025 mega auction, Krunal was signed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a commendable sum of INR 5.75 crore, a figure that underlines the high regard in which he is held across the league. His all-round skills, leadership qualities, and experience have continued to drive his market value upwards, reflecting his importance in any squad setup.
Krunal’s journey towards 3,000 T20 runs and his notable IPL achievements
Krunal is steadily closing in on the significant milestone of 3,000 runs in T20 cricket, a feat that highlights his consistency and longevity in the shortest format. So far, he has amassed 2,942 runs at a solid average of 24.11, a record which includes nine well-crafted half-centuries. In the IPL arena, where the pressure is relentless and the margins fine, Krunal has contributed 1,744 runs at an average of 22.64 and 89 wickets with an economy of 7.47 across 137 matches and 116 innings.
His recent match winning half-century marked against the Delhi Capitals (DC) only the second of his IPL career, a reminder that his primary role often revolves around providing quick, valuable cameos rather than building long innings. Against the DC specifically, Krunal has enjoyed considerable success, having scored 418 runs at a strong average of 38, including two fifties, a record that speaks to his ability to rise to the occasion against formidable opponents. Additionally, his recent outing saw him cross another personal landmark as he surpassed 150 fours in the IPL, now boasting a tally of 151 boundaries.
Also READ: Breakdown of Mitchell Starc’s IPL salary since debut
Krunal IPL salary breakdown (Detailed with team-by-team journey)
1. Mumbai Indians (2016-2021)
Salary: INR 2 crore (2016-2017), INR 8.8 crore (2018-2021)
IPL 2016 Auction:
Krunal Pandya entered the IPL as a relatively unknown name and was snapped up by Mumbai Indians (MI) at his base price of INR 2 crore. Despite low expectations, he quickly rose to prominence with explosive cameos and crucial left-arm spin spells.
Rise in Stock:
Krunal’s match-winning 47 runs in the 2017 IPL final against Rising Pune Supergiant (earning the Man of the Match award) significantly boosted his reputation. In the 2018 auction (after MI retained only three players), Krunal entered the auction pool and MI used the Right-to-Match (RTM) card to retain him for INR 8.8 crore, a massive jump from his earlier salary.
2018-2021 Period:
Over these four years, Krunal became one of the top all-rounders for Mumbai, helping MI win multiple titles. His ability to float in the batting order and bowl 3-4 controlled overs made him invaluable, justifying the high price tag.
2. Lucknow Super Giants (2022-2024)
Salary: INR 8.25 crore
IPL 2022 mega auction:
With MI not retaining him ahead of the mega auction, Krunal entered the 2022 pool. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), a new franchise, aggressively bid for him and secured his services for INR 8.25 crore.
Role at LSG:
Krunal was seen as a leadership figure within the young franchise setup. In 2023, after KL Rahul’s injury, he even captained LSG for several matches. His flexible role with both bat and ball made him an ideal team player on slow tracks, especially in Lucknow. Although the LSG salary was slightly lower than his MI peak, it still reflected his consistent reputation as a reliable all-rounder.
3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2025-present)
Salary: INR 5.75 crore
IPL 2025 mega-auction:
After a mixed 2024 season with LSG, Krunal went back into the auction pool. RCB, looking for a seasoned Indian all-rounder to strengthen their middle-order and spin attack, bought him for INR 5.75 crore.
Current Role:
- With RCB historically struggling with depth and balance, Krunal is being used strategically:
- To control the middle overs with the ball.
- To bat in crisis situations, often rebuilding after top-order collapses.
- To finish games calmly when needed.
Also READ: Breakdown of RCB captain Rajat Patidar’s IPL salary since debut
