Royal Challengers Bengaluru grabbed their second IPL title in two years on Sunday, beating Gujarat Titans by five wickets. That first title win in 2025? Pure relief for fans who waited 18 long years. But celebration quickly turned heartbreaking. After RCB’s historic win, a stampede broke out during the victory parade—11 fans died. People started wondering if RCB would play in Bengaluru again any time soon. Now, it looks like this year’s victory parade won’t happen.
“What a night. What a feeling. To every member of the RCB nation, congratulations. This is YOUR win. As the celebrations begin, let’s be responsible. The best way to celebrate is with your loved ones. Relive the memories, and enjoy this special moment from the comfort of home. We’ll see you in the stadium next year, 12th Man Army. Until then, spread the joy and keep supporting us. #PlayBold #????RCB #IPL2026,” RCB wrote on X.
So, the message is pretty clear—they aren’t coming back to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium this year after all.
Krunal Pandya, the all-rounder who’s been a big part of RCB’s journey these past two seasons, called the title defense a reward for the franchise’s patience and planning over the years. He also savored a personal milestone—five IPL trophies in his career.
Every IPL trophy means something different, he says. Comparing them just doesn’t make sense. “Every IPL trophy is special. There’s no doubt about it. It’s like having kids, right? You can’t pick. Same with IPL trophies because they’re all so hard-earned,” Krunal said after lifting the trophy.
Winning five IPLs in 11 seasons? That’s rare, and Krunal knows it. “I’m so glad and grateful that in 11 years, to have five trophies, it’s pretty special for me,” he said.
Even with the spotlight on him and his teammates, Krunal didn’t forget everyone working behind the scenes. He gave credit to the management and coaches for building a team that could win back-to-back seasons. “A lot of credit goes to the support staff—Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, Dinesh Karthik, Malolan, Omi (Omkar Salvi). The way they prepared before last year’s auction and set up the squad, the balance they brought in—that made all the difference,” Krunal said.
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